Peppertree

Zanthoxylum schinifolium

Physical Characteristics

Zanthoxylum schinifolium is a deciduous Shrub growing to 4 m (13ft 1in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen in October. 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. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Condiment Seed - cooked. It is used as a condiment, a pepper substitute[151]. Young leaves[105]. No more details are given.

Medicinal Uses

Anaesthetic Diuretic Parasiticide Stimulant Tonic Vasodilator The pericarp is anaesthetic, diuretic, parasiticide and vasodilator[176]. It is used in the treatment of gastralgia and dyspepsia due to cold with vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, ascariasis and dermal diseases[176]. It has a local anaesthetic action and is parasiticide against the pork tapeworm (Taenia solium)[176]. The pericarp contains geraniol. In small doses this has a mild diuretic action, though large doses will inhibit the excretion of urine[176]. There is a persistent increase in peristalsis at low concentration, but inhibition at high concentration[176]. The resin contained in the bark, and especially in that of the roots, is powerfully stimulant and tonic[82].

Known Hazards

None known