Image courtesy of Heather Miles Photography
Tasmannia lanceolata (Poir.) A.C.Sm. Family: Winteraceae
Tasmannia – Named after the seaman and explorer, Abel Tasman
lanceolata – from the Latin meaning lance-shaped, referring to the leaves
Common names: Mountain pepper, pepper berry (with reference to the fruit), native pepper, Tasmanian pepper.
Overview
Tasmannia species are small trees with glossy, aromatic leaves, found in the cool mountainous regions of south-eastern Australia. The genus is significant since it contains some of the most pungent or hot tasting species found in the native flora.
P. lanceolata has become a popular “bush food” item due to its spicy flavour. It has much potential as an antimicrobial and antifungal medicine; the compound polygodial having been proven to be a potent inhibitor of Candida albicans and other pathogenic organisms.
A close relative – Drimys winteri – from South America – is the source of Winter’s bark, once used as a specific against scurvy on long ocean voyages. Mountain pepper is a multi-purpose plant, and suitable for cultivation in cooler, high-rainfall areas.
Indigenous Plants for Health, Inc. 