[wiki.bugwood.org] Etymology, Taxonomy: The genus name, Schinus, is derived from Greek schinos used to describe the mastic tree, Pistacia lenticus, which has similar resin. The species epithet, polygamus, is derived from polygamous, meaning with both single and dual sex flowers on one or different plants. The common name, peppertree, is given to the trees in this genus because the seeds were used to adulterate pepper. As its common name implies, this plant occurs in Peru as a native. (link added by Mary Ann Machi)