About
A bushy, spiny, medium to large deciduous shrub or small tree. Flat-topped sprays of small, yellow-green flowers are produced in early summer, followed by open clusters of small, red fruits that split open to reveal black seeds. The ash-like leaves are up to 8cm long with up to 11 broad leaflets. Leaves, bark and fruit are all aromatic. May be grown as an edible - the seed pods can be dried and used as a condiment which is more pungent than black pepper.
About the genus
Zanthoxylum are broadly rounded to upright, spiny, deciduous or evergreen trees and shrubs. They have aromatic bark and leaves. Sprays of small green or yellow-green flowers appear in spring or summer, followed by small fruits that split to reveal seeds attached by short threads
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens
Native toChina, Taiwan, Korea
FragranceBark, Foliage, Fruit
ToxicityFruit are ornamental. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. (This guidance applies to plants grown for ornamental purposes only and not those grown as edibles). 19197,zanthoxylum-stenophyllum,Zanthoxylum stenophyllum,,A garden-worthy tree
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or light, dappled shade
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed, or root semi-ripe cuttings in midsummer with bottom heat, or take root cuttings in late winter
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free