Zanthoxylum avicennae, commonly known as Toothache Tree, is a deciduous tree native to a variety of habitats including limestone hills, mixed forests, and along riverbanks in southern China, the Philippines, Northern Vietnam, and Taiwan. It can grow up to 50 feet tall and is characterized by its thorny trunks and branches, which serve as a defense mechanism against herbivores. The tree is notable for its pinnate leaves and clusters of small, inconspicuous flowers that bloom in the spring. The bark and fruits of Zanthoxylum avicennae are used in traditional medicine and as a spice in culinary dishes.

Toothache Tree is valued for its unique appearance, with the thorns adding textural interest to gardens. It is sometimes used as a barrier plant due to its thorny nature. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to partial shade and requires well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping. However, gardeners should be cautious as the thorns can make maintenance challenging. Zanthoxylum avicennae is potentially invasive in some parts of the world, and its aggressive root system can cause problems if not managed properly. Before growing it outside of its native range, please check to see if it is invasive in your area.CC BY-SA 4.0