Native Mountain Pepper - Tasmannia lanceolata (Pepperberry tree) seeds

Mountain Pepper (Tasmannia lanceolata)
A native shrub of the cool temperate rainforests of southeastern Australia, prized for its aromatic leaves and peppery berries. With vibrant red stems, delicate cream or white flowers, and striking black berries, Mountain Pepper is both an ornamental and functional addition to gardens.

Quick Facts

• Height: 2–10 m
• Flowers: Small cream or white blooms in summer
• Fruits: Black berries (5–8 mm wide) in autumn
• Growth Habit: Upright shrub with separate male and female plants
• Soil: Prefers well-drained soils
• Shade Tolerance: Thrives in partial to full shade
• Frost Hardy: Tolerates temperatures as low as -8°C (20–22°F)

Why Grow Mountain Pepper?

Mountain Pepper is a versatile plant with culinary, medicinal, and ornamental value. It attracts birds like Currawongs with its berries, enhances the natural ecosystem, and adds vibrant color and structure to shaded garden areas.

Bush Food Note

• Edible Parts: Leaves and berries.
• Flavor: Berries are sweet with a peppery aftertaste. Leaves and berries are commonly dried and used as a spice.
• Harvesting Tip: Berries are ripe when they change from red to black.

Bush Medicine

Mountain Pepper has been traditionally used in Aboriginal medicine for treating skin disorders, venereal diseases, colic, and stomach aches. Modern studies suggest its berries inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria, protozoa, and show limited antiviral activity.

Disclaimer: Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants for medicinal purposes.

How to Grow

Sowing Instructions:

• Cold stratify seeds for 28 days to improve germination.
• Sow just under the soil surface in a location with full sun to part shade.

Planting and Care:

• Select well-drained soil in a shaded or semi-shaded area.
• Water regularly but avoid overwatering.
• Ensure both male and female plants are grown for fruit production.

Germination:

• Untreated seeds may take 6–9 months to germinate. Stratification significantly improves results.

Uses in Your Garden

• Ornamental: Red stems, cream flowers, and black berries add visual appeal.
• Wildlife Habitat: Attracts birds, including Currawongs, that feed on the berries.
• Edible and Functional: Provides flavorful leaves and berries for culinary and medicinal uses.

Order Now

Enhance your garden with the iconic Mountain Pepper (Tasmannia lanceolata). Its ornamental beauty, culinary versatility, and traditional medicinal uses make it a must-have for Australian native plant enthusiasts. Grow a piece of the rainforest in your own backyard!