Prickly Ash (Zanthoxylum americanum)

Prickly Ash is a hardy, native small tree or large shrub found naturally across Southern Ontario and Quebec, and throughout the U.S. portion of the Carolinian Zone. It belongs to the Rutaceae (citrus) family and is one of only two native members of the citrus family found in Eastern Canada, the other being the Common Hop Tree (Ptelea trifoliata).

Closely related to Sichuan pepper (Zanthoxylum spp.), Prickly Ash produces aromatic berries with a warm, citrusy flavour and a gentle numbing sensation. The dried fruit can be used as a locally grown spice, offering a northern, native alternative to imported Sichuan pepper.

When in fruit, the trees are especially striking. The berries ripen to a vibrant red, are borne in dense clusters, and are about the size of a pea, giving the plant a beautiful and ornamental appearance in late summer and fall.

This species responds very well to pruning and can be trained into a life-sized bonsai or sculptural small tree, making it both practical and ornamental in the landscape.

Sowing instructions:
Seeds require cold stratification to germinate. For best results, sow outdoors in late fall or use a winter sowing method. Seeds will naturally germinate in spring once temperatures warm. Be patient—germination can be slow and uneven, which is normal for this species.

At least 15 seeds per packet.