Nettle Tree, Toothache Tree
zanthoxylum fagara
Also known as: ["Florida Prickly Ash","Hercules' Club"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree native to the Americas, known for its aromatic leaves and spiny stems.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Rutaceae |
| Genus: | Zanthoxylum |
| Botanical Name: | Zanthoxylum fagara |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sunny spot, can be container-grown in warmer climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil mix with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of direct sun in cooler months, filtered light in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; protect from intense afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, and avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, stable conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options like compost tea.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–80°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, and well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to maintain shape and promote airflow.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), and disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased wood, shape evenly, and avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; needed to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare fresh soil, handle roots carefully, water after repotting, and place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply, allow excess to drain, and water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with bark or coco coir.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots with mulch, and avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use diluted fertilizer, apply during growing season, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid winter fertilization.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest the berries or seeds of Zanthoxylum fagara, which contain compounds that can upset the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Zanthoxylum fagara berries and seeds can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of irritant compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicZanthoxylum fagara contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The berries and seeds contain essential oils and alkaloids that may irritate the digestive tract in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Zanthoxylum fagara edible?
A: The leaves and bark have a citrus-like flavor and are used in some culinary applications, but should be used sparingly due to mild toxicity.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its fragrant flowers and fruit.
Q: How should I care for Zanthoxylum fagara?
A: It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Water moderately and prune to maintain shape.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rutaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
