Zanthoxylum schinifolium
mastic-leaf prickly ash
A deciduous shrub to 2.5m tall, with spiny stems bearing pinnate leaves composed of 11-21 aromatic leaflets. The foliage turns golden yellow in autumn. In late summer it produces clusters of small, yellowy-green flowers; these are followed by spherical, red fruits that split to reveal glossy black seeds. The fruits are used as spice in Asian cuisine
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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Yellow | Green | ||
| Autumn | Yellow | Red | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Rutaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- 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
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- China, Korea, Jap.
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or light shade
Propagation
Propagate by sowing seed in containers in a cold frame in autumn. Root semi-ripe cuttings with bottom heat in summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Low Maintenance
Pruning
See pruning group 1
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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