Contents
Description
Zanthoxylum Ailanthoides, commonly known as the Chinese prickly ash, is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 25 meters tall. It is native to China, Korea, and Japan and is widely cultivated in other parts of the world. The bark of the tree is gray-brown and has a distinctive fragrance. The leaves are pinnately compound and can grow up to 30 cm long. The tree produces small yellow-green flowers that bloom in the spring and summer, followed by clusters of small, reddish-brown fruits in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Zanthoxylum |
Appearance
Zanthoxylum Ailanthoides is a large tree with a wide-spreading crown. The bark is gray-brown and has a rough texture. The leaves are pinnately compound and can grow up to 30 cm long. They have a glossy dark green color and are arranged in an alternate pattern on the branches. The tree produces small yellow-green flowers that bloom in the spring and summer, followed by clusters of small, reddish-brown fruits in the fall. The fruits are about 3 mm in diameter and have a spicy, citrus-like flavor.
Care Guide
Zanthoxylum Ailanthoides requires well-draining soil and regular watering. The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy to USDA zones 6-9. Fertilize the tree in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer. Prune the tree in the winter to maintain its shape and remove dead or damaged branches.
Common Pests & Diseases
Zanthoxylum Ailanthoides is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including aphids, scale insects, and leaf spot. To prevent these issues, keep the tree healthy and well-watered. If pests or diseases do occur, treat them with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Zanthoxylum Ailanthoides is native to China, Korea, and Japan and is widely cultivated in other parts of the world. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, hillsides, and riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Zanthoxylum Ailanthoides a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, Zanthoxylum Ailanthoides can grow up to 1 meter per year in ideal conditions.
Q: Can Zanthoxylum Ailanthoides be grown in a container?
A: While it is possible to grow Zanthoxylum Ailanthoides in a container, it is not recommended as the tree can grow quite large and requires a lot of space for root development.
Q: What is the best time of year to prune Zanthoxylum Ailanthoides?
A: The best time to prune Zanthoxylum Ailanthoides is in the winter when the tree is dormant.
Q: Can Zanthoxylum Ailanthoides be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Zanthoxylum Ailanthoides can be propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in the summer.
Related Plants
- Zanthoxylum Simulans
- Zanthoxylum Bungeanum
- Zanthoxylum Schinifolium
References
- “Zanthoxylum Ailanthoides.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282174&isprofile=0
- “Chinese Prickly Ash.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/296258/Zanthoxylum-ailanthoides/Details
- “Zanthoxylum Ailanthoides.” PlantFiles, davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/54258/
