Zanthoxylum americanum (Prickly Ash)

Zanthoxylum americanum (Prickly Ash) is an aromatic, small tree or large multi-stemmed shrub with compound, rich, dark green leaves, 12 in. long (30 cm), adorned with 5-11 leaflets. The foliage is reminiscent of the ash foliage and turns yellow in the fall. The stems are prominently armed with sharp prickles. In spring, fragrant greenish-yellow flowers bloom along the stems as the leaves emerge. They are inconspicuous but attractive to bees. The female flowers give way to clusters of rounded, reddish-brown fruits which ripen in late summer. All parts of Prickly Ash are aromatic and exude a lemony fragrance. Adaptable, tough, durable, this is a good plant for naturalizing and wildlife food. Good as a hedgerow, barrier, or thicket in a naturalistic wildlife garden.

• Grows up to 15-20 ft. tall (450-600 cm) and 10-15 ft. wide (300-450 cm). Colonizes by root suckers to form dense thickets.
• Performs best in full sun or part shade in medium moisture, well-drained soils. Tolerates drought and poor soils.
• Good choice for hedgerows or screens.
• No serious pest or disease issues.
• Promptly remove suckers to prevent any undesired spread.
• Native to eastern and central North America.