Originally sold as an ornamental in Texas, the Brazilian Peppertree forms dense thickets, shading out native grasses and shrubs, and actively takes over the plains in the Texas coastal plains. It is considered one of the greatest threats to native biodiversity for its dramatic affect on both plant and animal communities. Although some birds feed on and spread the seeds, the plant shades out many native plants used by other wildlife. The Peppertree was imported as an ornamental in the 1830s to Florida. By the 1950s it had become a problem in Florida.
Brazilian Peppertree is on the Texas Dept. of Agriculture’s List of Noxious Plants and on Texas Parks and Wildlife’s list of Invasive, Prohibited and Exotic species which are illegal to sell, distribute or import into Texas.
For information on how to eradicate this invasive, view our statement on herbicide use and preferred alternatives for invasive plants.
You can replace this invasive plant with native alternatives. Here are some plants that make superior replacements.
Match your location on the Texas map to the color squares on the replacement plants below to find suitable replacements for your ecoregion.
State Office Address:
Native Plant Society of Texas
PO Box 3017
Fredericksburg, TX 78624
Become an important part of a statewide community with over 5,000 members, who are united in our mission to promote Texas native plants!
Native Plant Society of Texas is a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization This website and all content Copyright © Native Plant Society of Texas. All rights reserved. Content may not be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission. Contact the Webmaster.
