Tasmanian Pepper Also known as Drimys lanceolata or Tasmannia lanceolata, Drimys aromatica is a large evergreen shrub or small tree, with a dense, upright, almost columnar habit and deep red shoots. The glossy, dark green leaves are 3”/8cm long and lance-shaped; they have a strong, peppery taste, as do the berries on female plants. Drimys lancolata is dioecious, meaning male and female flowers are produced on separate plants. In April, clusters of tiny, fragrant, cream to pale yellow, star-shaped flowers are borne on the red stems. A trouble-free plant for milder areas, it’s ideal in a woodland planting. Tasmanian pepper is only hardy to about 5 degrees of frost, so is not for colder areas. Site: ShelteredSoil: Reasonably fertile, well-drained soil, preferably acidicPosition: Full sun or partial shadeSeason of interest: All year, mid-spring in particularHardiness: Doubtfully hardyHeight: 13’ (4m) Spread: 8’ (2.5m)
