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The Incas had many uses for this evergreen tree including:
- Using the leaves as a natural dye to add a dash of color to their clothes.
- Using the oils to preserve and embalm their dead.
- Creating a syrup by boiling down the berries
- Enjoying an alcoholic drink called chica.
What is pirul used for in Peru?
Today the pink berries are used in tea, syrups and beverages across Peru, including Chilean wines. Traditional preparations of Pirul include added to culinary dishes such as gruels, also syrups and as an additive with other herbs and spices. The leaves are also used in spiritual blessing ceremonies.
What is the botanical name of pirul?
Botanical Name: Schinus Molle. Common Names: American pepper, Peruvian pepper tree, pirul, molle del Peru, escobilla. What parts of pirul are used? Almost all parts of the Peruvian pepper tree can be used including the leaves, berries and bark. How do you identify pirul and where is it grown?
How tall does a pirul grow?
The pirul can grow tall quite quickly, often reaching 15 feet tall. This plant is a native to the Peruvian Andes and can be found growing in South America, the Andean desert and Central Argentina. It has been naturalized in the United States and Australia, where it has become quite invasive in certain areas.
How can you tell if a pirul is an evergreen?
This evergreen tree can be identified by the bunches of bright pink peppercorns that cascade beautifully on long, drooping branches. The pirul can grow tall quite quickly, often reaching 15 feet tall. This plant is a native to the Peruvian Andes and can be found growing in South America, the Andean desert and Central Argentina.
What is S. molle used for?
Extracts of S. molle have been used as a flavor in drinks and syrups.
What are the leaves used for?
The leaves are also used for the natural dyeing of textiles in the Andean region. This practice dates back to pre-Columbian times. The Incas used the oil from its leaves in early mummification practices to preserve and embalm their dead.
Is Molle a weed?
S. molle is a drought-tolerant, long-lived, hardy evergreen species that has become a serious invasive weed internationally.
