Hello, young nature lovers! Today, we’re going to explore a unique plant called the Common Prickly-Ash Tree, or as scientists call it, “Zanthoxylum americanum”. Don’t let the prickly part scare you away; this tree is full of surprises!
Have you ever heard of a tree that can give your tongue a tingle and maybe even help with a toothache? Well, meet the common prickly-ash (Zanthoxylum americanum) – a surprising plant with a hidden punch!
A Spiky Surprise
What is the Common Prickly-Ash Tree?
The Common Prickly-Ash Tree is a small tree or large shrub that can grow up to 15-20 feet tall. It has dark green leaves that are similar to ash tree leaves and turn yellow in the fall. The stems are covered with sharp prickles, which is how it got its name. In spring, it has small, fragrant greenish-yellow flowers that bees love. By late summer, these flowers turn into rounded, reddish-brown fruits.
This interesting shrub or small tree might look a bit ordinary at first glance. But take a closer look, and you’ll see its branches covered in tiny prickles – like a built-in security system! This is where it gets its name. But don’t worry, these prickles are more for show than anything – a gentle nudge is all it takes to avoid them.
A Citrusy Kick
The real surprise with it comes when you brush against its leaves or break a twig. BAM! A burst of citrusy scent fills the air. That’s because, even though it doesn’t look like a lemon tree, it is actually a relative of citrus plants! Pretty cool, huh?
How is the Common Prickly-Ash Tree Used?
This tree is not just for looking at; it has many uses too! All parts of the Tree are aromatic and give off a lemony fragrance. It’s a great plant for naturalizing and providing food for wildlife. It can also be used as a hedgerow, barrier, or thicket in a naturalistic wildlife garden.
Native American tribes have used it for centuries for its medicinal properties. The leaves and bark have a numbing effect, which is why it earned the nickname “toothache tree.” Chewing on a bit of it (be careful and only do so under adult supervision!) could actually help soothe a sore tooth.
What are the Benefits of the Common Prickly-Ash Tree?
The Common Prickly-Ash Tree is not just a pretty face; it’s also very beneficial! The wood might not be commercially valuable, but oil extracts from the bark have been used in traditional and alternative medicine. These extracts have been studied for their antifungal and cytotoxic properties. This means they can help fight against fungi and can be toxic to cells, which can be useful in treating certain diseases.
The prickly-ash’s citrusy flavor also makes it an interesting culinary ingredient. In small amounts, the Sichuan peppercorn (a close relative of the prickly-ash) is used in some Asian dishes to create a unique tingling sensation on the tongue. But be warned – a little goes a long way! Too much of it can cause some serious mouth numbing.
Furthermore, the tree’s berries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, offering immune-boosting benefits and protection against oxidative stress.
Are There Any Drawbacks?
While the Common Prickly-Ash Tree is a wonderful plant, it does have some challenges. Its spines can make it difficult to handle, and it’s not generally used for ornamental purposes. It can also form dense thickets by sending up shoots from its underground stems, which some people might not want in their gardens.
While it seems like a neat plant, it’s important to remember that it can be irritating to the skin and eyes. So, admire it from a safe distance and never eat any part of the plant without adult supervision and proper guidance from a herbal expert.
In Summary
So, there you have it, explorers! The Common Prickly-Ash Tree is a fascinating plant with a lot of uses and benefits. But like all plants, it faces challenges too. Remember, every time you see it you’re looking at a plant that’s been a part of our world for a very long time. Isn’t that amazing?
The common prickly-ash might be a bit prickly (as the name suggests!), but it’s a fascinating plant with a rich history and interesting uses. So, next time you’re out exploring nature, keep an eye out for this spiky wonder – just remember to keep your distance and enjoy its citrusy scent from afar!
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Related Reading
Prickly Ash (Zanthoxylum americanum) Growing & Care Guide for Gardeners. https://www.gardenershq.com/Zanthoxylum-americanum.php.
PRICKLY-ASH – ZANTHOXYLUM AMERICANUM | The UFOR Nursery & Lab. https://trees.umn.edu/prickly-ash-zanthoxylum-americanum.
Plant Guide – USDA Plants Database. https://plants.usda.gov/DocumentLibrary/plantguide/pdf/cs_zaam.pdf.
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