Chinese prickly ash (Zanthoxylum schinifolium)

Chinese prickly ash

Also known as: Mastic-leaf prickly ash

Chinese prickly ash is a fragrant, deciduous shrub from China and Japan that has small black fruits that can be dried and used as a pepper-like spice. This spice is commonly used in Sichuan cuisine in China. Because of this, the species is sometimes called Sichuan pepper tree.

Scientific classification

Species

Chinese prickly ash (Zanthoxylum schinifolium)

Maples, mangos, mahogany, citrus, and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Shrub

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Mid fall

Harvest Time

2 m

Plant Height

3 mm

Flower Size

Green

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

Images of Chinese prickly ash

Distribution of Chinese prickly ash

Distribution Map

Chinese prickly ash is indigenous to East Asia where it thrives in the temperate regions. This species is not reported to have significant introduced ranges outside its natural habitat, meaning it remains relatively confined to its native areas on the Asian continent.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Low mountains, Roadsides

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Chinese prickly ash

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Chinese prickly ash has adapted to variable moisture conditions, showing drought tolerance. It thrives with watering every 2-3 weeks. Rainwater mimics its natural environment, enhancing growth, especially for this outdoor plant exposed to the elements.

Pruning: Chinese prickly ash thrives with early spring pruning, focusing on removing diseased, damaged, or dead branches to promote health and new growth. Shape shrubs for air circulation using clean, sharp tools. This practice enhances overall vitality and appearance, leading to robust growth during the active season.

Propagation: Chinese prickly ash is best propagated through cuttings from healthy, vigorous stems, including a node for root initiation. A stable, warm, and humid environment promotes rooting, and applying rooting hormone can enhance development. Once rooted, transfer cuttings to individual pots with well-draining soil to simulate natural conditions.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of Chinese prickly ash

Distribution of Chinese prickly ash

Care Guide for Chinese prickly ash

PEOPLE ALSO ASK