Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius) seedlings development under different luminous intensity

Brazilian pepper is a native mastic that despite its high potential is still underutilized nationally. Its main uses guiding use of herbal extracts for cosmetic purposes and as a suitable plant for reforestration of degraded areas. This research aimed to evaluate the influence of luminous intensity (shading) in the early development of Schinus terebinthifolius seedlings. For that purpose, 64 seedlings were subjected to restriction in four light conditions: 0, 35, 50 and 80%. The following parameters were measured: Number of leaves (NF), plantule size (TP), stem diameter (DC), root volume (VR), leaf dry matter (MSF), stem dry matter (MSC), shoot dry matter (MSA), root dry matter (MSR) and total dry matter (MST). The results show that the species S. terebinthifolius is sensitive to bright gradient imposed on the plants. According to the equation, the point corresponding to maximum development of roots is near to 50% light restriction.