Pink peppercorn
HISTORY AND DESCRIPTION
The pink berry, or called “false pepper” or “pink pepper” is the drupe of Schinus terebenthifolius.
This plant is native to South America and is currently cultivated in other tropical countries, such as Reunion Island or Madagascar.
The Schinus terebinthifolius is a tree that can reach from 3 to 10 meters high. Its leaves are persistent, alternate and imperipennate from 7.5 to 15 cm long. The blade is whole or serrated, its base and top are wedge-shaped.
The flowers are grouped in clusters located mainly at the base of the upper leaves. They release a peppery smell.
The fruits or “pink berries”, with a bright red color, are grouped in dense clusters. The pulp is brown aromatic resinous, slightly bitter. They contain an elliptical seed, light brown, with a peppery smell.
PROPERTIES / VIRTUES
In addition to its tasty properties, the pink berry has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and purifying virtues.