Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Rutaceae

Genus:

Zanthoxylum

Species:

Zanthoxylum spinosum

USDA Symbol:

ZACO

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Shrub , Tree

Height:

600 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

apr,may,jun

Bloom Colors:

greenish-yellow

Landscaping Shrub:

Yes

Wildlife Benefits

Butterflies & Moths:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, butterflies

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Fragrant:

Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

well-drained, sandy to loamy soil

pH:

6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to Caribbean, prefers coastal conditions

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 60–90 days

Germination Time:

30–60 days

Notes:

Seeds benefit from cold stratification for 2-3 months to break dormancy.