Contents
Description
Zanthoxylum Davyi, also commonly known as Davy’s Prickly Ash or Zanthoxylum hawaiiense, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the Rutaceae family. It is native to Hawaii and is commonly found in dry to mesic forests, on slopes and ridges, and in the lowlands. The tree can grow up to 15 meters tall and can have a trunk diameter of up to 60 centimeters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Zanthoxylum |
Appearance
The leaves of Zanthoxylum Davyi are dark green in color and are arranged alternately on the stem. They are pinnately compound, with 5-9 leaflets that are ovate to oblong in shape. The leaflets are 3-8 cm long and 1.5-3 cm wide. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that are arranged in clusters at the tips of the branches. The fruit of Zanthoxylum Davyi is a small, round, greenish-yellow berry that is about 6-8 mm in diameter. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown and is covered in prickles.
Care Guide
Zanthoxylum Davyi is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly but not excessively. Fertilization is recommended during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer. The tree should be planted in an area that receives full to partial sunlight. It is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Zanthoxylum Davyi is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is not well-draining. It may also be affected by scale insects, which can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Habitat
Zanthoxylum Davyi is native to Hawaii and is commonly found in dry to mesic forests, on slopes and ridges, and in the lowlands. It prefers well-draining soil and can grow in areas that receive full to partial sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Zanthoxylum Davyi a fast-growing tree?
A: No, Zanthoxylum Davyi is a slow-growing tree.
Q: Can Zanthoxylum Davyi be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Zanthoxylum Davyi can be grown in containers, but it may require frequent repotting as it grows.
Q: Does Zanthoxylum Davyi have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, the bark and leaves of Zanthoxylum Davyi have been used in traditional Hawaiian medicine to treat various ailments, such as toothaches and stomach problems.
Q: Is Zanthoxylum Davyi a good tree for landscaping?
A: Yes, Zanthoxylum Davyi can be used for landscaping due to its attractive appearance and low-maintenance requirements.
Related Plants
- Zanthoxylum clava-herculis
- Zanthoxylum fagara
- Zanthoxylum flavum
- Zanthoxylum lenticulare
- Zanthoxylum nitidum
References
- “Zanthoxylum hawaiiense.” National Tropical Botanical Garden. Accessed 29 Nov. 2021. https://ntbg.org/plants/plant_details.php?plantid=13753
- “Zanthoxylum hawaiiense.” Hawaiian Ecosystems at Risk project. Accessed 29 Nov. 2021. https://www.hear.org/species/zanthoxylum_hawaiiense/
- “Zanthoxylum hawaiiense.” University of Hawaii at Manoa. Accessed 29 Nov. 2021. https://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/forestry/data/CommonTreesHI/CFT_Zanthoxylum_hawaiiense.pdf
