Mountain Pepper

Mountain pepper (Drimys lanceolata, Winteraceae; now Tasmannia lanceolata) is a slow-growing broadleaf evergreen shrub or small tree from southeastern Australia and Tasmania, reaching about 14 feet tall and 8 feet wide. Aromatic, glossy green lanceolate leaves (2 to 12 centimeters) are held on distinctive red stems. Pale yellow to creamy flowers appear in clusters.

Mountain pepper grows in part shade on moist soils in sheltered locations, hardy in Zones 7a to 10b. The leaves and berries have a peppery taste and are used as a culinary spice and in traditional medicine. No significant pest or disease issues are documented. No cultivars are in the trade.