Contents
Description
Zanthoxylum Arborescens, commonly known as the Toothache Tree, is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America. The plant belongs to the Rutaceae family and is widely known for its medicinal properties. The Toothache Tree typically grows up to 20 feet in height and has a spread of 15 feet. The plant produces small, fragrant yellow flowers that bloom in early summer, followed by green fruits that ripen to a bright red color in late summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Zanthoxylum |
Appearance
The Toothache Tree has a distinct appearance, with its slender stems and thorny branches. The plant produces compound leaves that are dark green in color and have a glossy texture. The leaves are oval-shaped and have serrated edges. The Toothache Tree also produces small, fragrant yellow flowers that are followed by green fruits that ripen to a bright red color in late summer. The fruits have a bumpy texture and contain a single seed.
Care Guide
To grow a healthy Toothache Tree, it is important to provide adequate care. Here are some tips on how to care for the plant:
Water: The Toothache Tree prefers moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Soil: The Toothache Tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal.
Sunlight: The Toothache Tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 5 through 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Toothache Tree is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spot and powdery mildew. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the plant. The plant may also attract aphids and spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Toothache Tree is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, prairies, and rocky slopes. The plant is often used in landscaping and is valued for its ornamental qualities and medicinal properties.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal properties of the Toothache Tree?
A: The Toothache Tree has long been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including toothaches, sore throats, and digestive problems. The plant contains compounds that have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
Q: Can the Toothache Tree be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the Toothache Tree can be grown in a container as long as it is provided with adequate space and drainage. However, the plant may not reach its full potential in a container.
Q: Is the Toothache Tree easy to propagate?
A: The Toothache Tree can be propagated by seed or hardwood cuttings. However, seed propagation can be slow and may not produce plants that are true to type.
Q: Is the Toothache Tree toxic to pets?
A: The Toothache Tree is not known to be toxic to pets. However, the plant’s thorny branches can be a hazard to curious animals.
Related Plants
- Zanthoxylum americanum
- Zanthoxylum clava-herculis
- Zanthoxylum fagara
- Zanthoxylum flavum
- Zanthoxylum planispinum
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Publishing.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Zanthoxylum arborescens. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287351&isprofile=0&basic=Zanthoxylum
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Zanthoxylum arborescens. Retrieved from https://plants.sc.egov.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ZAAR
