Winged Prickly Ash

Zanthoxylum planispinum

Physical Characteristics

Zanthoxylum planispinum is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3.5 m (11ft 6in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower in May, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required).. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Condiment Seed - cooked. It can be ground into a powder and used as a condiment[183], a pepper substitute[2, 46, 177]. A light roasting brings out more of the flavour[206]. The seed is an ingredient of the famous Chinese 'five spice' mixture[206]. The peel is also used[105]. Young leaves are eaten[105, 177, 183]. No further details are given.

Medicinal Uses

Stimulant Stomachic Tonic Vermifuge The seeds and roots are stomachic and vermifuge[46, 61, 147]. A decoction of 7 - 14 seeds is used in the treatment of abscesses, arthritis, bruises, gastritis, swellings etc[218]. The resin contained in the bark, and especially in that of the roots, is powerfully stimulant and tonic[82].

Known Hazards

None known