Toothache Tree

(Zanthoxylum avicennae)

Toothache Tree (Zanthoxylum avicennae)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 55" - 82"
High Temp. 86°F - 94°F
Low Temp. 35°F - 60°F

Summary

Ambrosia ambrosioides, commonly known as Canyon Ragweed, is a semi-deciduous shrub or subshrub native to arid desert regions and scrublands of the Southwestern USA and Northwest Mexico. It typically grows to a height of 1–2 meters and is characterized by its elongate, coarsely-toothed leaves that are 4–18 cm long and 1.5–4 cm wide. The plant is monoecious, with both male and female flowers on the same plant; the male (staminate) flowers are arranged in terminal and axillary racemes above the female (pistillate) counterparts. Flowering mainly occurs from February through April, and the plant produces 10–15 mm burs covered with hooked spines that facilitate seed dispersal by attaching to animals and clothing.

Canyon Ragweed is valued for its adaptability to various light conditions, including full sun, part shade, and full shade, making it versatile for different garden settings. It thrives in soils with medium to fast drainage. While not commonly used in ornamental horticulture due to its allergenic pollen, it can be used in naturalistic plantings and restoration projects in its native range. Gardeners should be aware that it can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 10-20 feet
  • Width: 6-12 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Green
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption.

Natural Habitat

Limestone hills, mixed forests, and riverbanks in southern China, the Philippines, Northern Vietnam, and Taiwan

Other Names

Common Names: Avicenna Prickly Ash

Scientific Names: Zanthoxylum avicennae, Fagara avicennae, Fagara pterota, Nothopanax anisum, Panax anisum, Polyscias anisum, Zanthoxylum avicennae subsp. tonkinense, Zanthoxylum avicennae var. tonkinense, Zanthoxylum avicennae var. touranense

GBIF Accepted Name: Zanthoxylum avicennae