Tasmannia lanceolata (Poir.) A.C.Sm.

An attractive shrub that grows to 5 m tall. It can grow to 15 m tall in cool rainforest locations. It has dark green leaves and distinctive red young stems. Leaves are narrow and vary in shape. They are often oblong and 1.5-13 cm long. They are larger in lowland areas and smaller in mountains. They often have a broad base and taper. Male and female flowers are on separate plants. The flowers are at the base of new growth. The flowers are cream. The number of petals varies. The ripe fruit are black like peppercorns. They have 2 lobes and are shiny. They are 5 mm across. They have several black seeds inside. The leaves, bark and berries have an aromatic peppery taste.

It grows in cool wet places in Tasmania and Victoria in Australia. It does best in well drained moist soils with a rainfall of over 1,000 mm. It does best with plenty of light. It can grow up to 1200 m altitude. It is grown in Ireland as a hedge plant. Arboretum Tasmania.

The leaves, seeds and berries are used to add a spicy flavour to food. The berries are used fresh and dried. They are a pepper substitute. The flower buds are added to salads or pickled like capers. The bark can be used to make a herbal tea. It is also the source of an essential oil used to flavour confectionery.

Rooted cuttings will grow to 1 m in 2 to 3 years. Bottom heating helps cuttings form roots. It can be grown from seed which germinate in 6-8 weeks.