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Hercules' club
Also known as: Pepperbark, Tickle tongue
The hercules' club or Zanthoxylum clava-herculis is a unique tree with spiny crowns growing out of the bark. It is also known as the Toothache Tree or the Tongue Tickle because chewing on the bark of this tree will cause a numbing sensation in the mouth.
Scientific classification
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Perennial
Lifespan
Tree, Shrub
Plant Type
Spring
Bloom Time
Early fall, Mid fall
Harvest Time
9 m to 12 m
Plant Height
White, Yellow, Green
Flower Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Evergreen, Deciduous
Leaf type
15 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Spring, Summer
Growth Season

Images of Hercules' club

Toxicity

Hercules' club contains toxic compounds in its leaves, causing sensitivity to light, reduced iron absorption, and numbing when chewed. Pregnant women should avoid hercules' club due to miscarriage risks. It stimulates digestion, so those with digestive conditions and on blood clotting drugs should refrain from consuming this plant.
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Quickly Identify Hercules' club

1
Rounded crown with dark green, glossy pinnately compound leaves.
2
Knobby protuberances on branches and gray, furrowed bark.
3
Tiny dioecious flowers with distinct fragrance; signals spring arrival.
4
Seeds inside rigid brown husks, measuring 0.3–0.4 inches (8–10 mm) in diameter.
5
Pungent odor when leaves are crushed; pinnate veins and glabrous surface.
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Care Guide for Hercules' club

Every 1-2 weeks
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
15 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Garden Soil
Soil Type
Water: Hercules' club demonstrates moderate drought tolerance and thrives in balanced humidity. It requires watering every 1-2 weeks for optimal health. As a deciduous plant, hercules' club sheds leaves annually, decreasing its water needs during that time.
Fertilize: Hercules' club benefits from a balanced fertilizer in spring, with high nitrogen during early growth; apply every 2-3 months. Over-fertilization risks root burn. Reduce feeding in dormancy and monitor soil for optimal nutrient uptake and environmental safety.
Pruning: Hercules' club features thorny bark and aromatic leaves. Prune in early to late winter to eliminate dead wood and foster new growth. Thinning overcrowded branches enhances airflow and light. Pruning promotes a healthier structure and can boost flowering and fruiting. Consult horticultural resources for detailed techniques.
Propagation: Hercules' club propagates effectively via cutting and layering in Spring. While moderately challenging, success is marked by new foliage growth. Maintaining proper hygiene and using sharp tools are crucial for healthy propagation.
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