Foliage

• Deciduous leaves, pinnately compound, with 7–19 oval to lance-shaped leaflets per stem.
• Each leaflet is dark green, glossy, and slightly serrated, resembling those of citrus trees.
• Crushed leaves release a strong citrus-like fragrance.
• In fall, foliage turns yellow to golden brown before dropping.

Flowers

• Small, greenish-yellow flowers appear in clusters at the ends of branches.
• Blooms in spring to early summer (March–May, depending on climate).
• Dioecious, meaning male and female flowers are typically on separate trees.
• Flowers are not showy, but they attract pollinators like bees and butterflies due to their nectar.

Fruit

• Produces small, round, reddish-brown fruits (drupes) that ripen in late summer to fall.
• When mature, the fruit splits open, revealing shiny black seeds.
• Seeds are aromatic, containing compounds similar to Sichuan peppercorns, causing a tingling or numbing effect when consumed.
• Fruits provide a food source for birds and wildlife.

Bark

• One of the most distinctive features of this tree is its rough, corky bark, which is covered in sharp, conical spines.
• The trunk and branches develop large, wart-like projections, giving it a gnarled, armored appearance.
• Bark has historically been used for its medicinal properties, particularly as a toothache remedy due to its numbing alkaloids.
• Older trees develop a deeply furrowed, textured bark with increased ruggedness over time.

Sunlight Requirements

• Thrives in full sun to partial shade.
• Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth.

Soil Preferences

• Adaptable to various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and well-drained clay soils.
• Prefers dry to moderately moist conditions but does not tolerate waterlogged soils.
• Tolerates poor, rocky, and nutrient-deficient soils.

Watering Needs

• Drought-tolerant once established; occasional deep watering in prolonged dry spells can help maintain vigor.
• Young trees require regular watering for the first 1–2 years to establish a strong root system.

Temperature & Hardiness

• Hardy in USDA Zones 6–10.
• Tolerates hot, humid conditions, making it well-suited for the southeastern U.S..
• Can withstand occasional cold snaps but may suffer damage in prolonged freezes.

Growth Rate & Mature Size

• Moderate growth rate, reaching 20–35 feet tall with a spreading, open canopy.
• Develops a distinctive, spiny trunk and branches, giving it a unique architectural appeal.

Fertilization

• Generally low-maintenance and does not require fertilization in nutrient-rich soils.
• If growth appears slow, apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring.

Pruning

• Requires minimal pruning; mainly to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
• Best pruned in late winter to early spring before new growth begins.
• Caution: Sharp spines on the trunk and branches require careful handling when pruning.

Pest & Disease Resistance

• Highly resistant to pests and diseases.
• May occasionally encounter aphids or scale insects, but these rarely cause significant damage.

Mulching

• Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch around the base, keeping it several inches away from the trunk.
• Helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.

Wildlife & Ecological Benefits

• Attracts pollinators, including bees and butterflies, when in bloom.
• The fruit is a food source for birds, while the spiny trunk provides habitat for insects and small creatures.
• Historically used by Indigenous peoples and early settlers for its medicinal properties, particularly as a toothache remedy.

Additional Notes:

• Sometimes called Toothache Tree, as its bark and leaves contain compounds that create a numbing effect when chewed.
• The fragrant flowers and citrus-scented leaves add to its appeal in naturalized and wildlife-friendly landscapes.
• A great choice for xeriscaping, native plant gardens, or as a unique specimen tree.