NORTH COUNTY’S
#1 TREE SERVICE

ISA Certified Arborists
Serving San Diego Since 1983

California Pepper Tree

Drought-Tolerant Tree Guide

The California Pepper (Schinus molle), also known as the Peruvian Pepper, is an extremely fast-growing, sun-loving tree that flourishes in the lower deserts of the Southwest. Native to dry, warm areas, this tree easily adapts to our similar desert conditions.

Click here to see our full list of drought-tolerant and drought-resistant trees perfect for your North County San Diego landscape.

  • CA Pepper2
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  • CA Pepper5
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  • CA Pepper8
  • CA Pepper7

Water Needs

Low (once established)

Height

25-40 feet

Flowers

Spring–summer | Small yellow flowers

Exposure

Full sun

Canopy Width

25-40 feet

Fruit

Fall–winter | Pink/red berries

Root Behavior

Aggressive invasive roots

Growth Rate

Fast

Pest & Disease

Generally low issues

Need help with your California Pepper tree? We’re here to help.

760-745-7871 Free Estimate

Serving North County San Diego Since 1983

We work throughout North County, with experience with mature residential trees, HOA landscapes, and properties near structures, enabling us to provide pruning that improves safety while preserving the tree’s natural form.

ISA Certified Arborists
Paul Rider #WE-1087A & Luke Rider #WE-13812A

Serving Coastal & Inland North County San Diego Since 1983

We work throughout North County, including Encinitas, Carlsbad, Vista, San Marcos, Escondido, Poway, Rancho Penasquitos, and Rancho Bernardo. Our experience with mature residential trees, HOA landscapes, and properties near structures enables us to provide pruning that improves safety while preserving the tree’s natural form.

ISA Certified Arborists
Paul Rider #WE-1087A
Luke Rider #WE-13812A