Peppertree gets its name from the strong-smelling berries that grow on it. The peppertree is not related to the familiar pepper plant. Peppertrees have drooping branches and bear yellowish-white flowers. The long leaves are filled with an oil that evaporates quickly. When the leaves are dropped onto still water, the oil escapes. The oil lowers the surface tension of the water, and the leaves move as if alive.
Peppertrees are native to South America, but they are now grown in California, Arizona, and Texas. They reach a height of about 50 feet (15 meters).
