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Northern prickly-ash (Zanthoxylum americanum) is a spiny shrub or small tree of the rue family, reaching 2 to 6 m in height. Its branches, often armed with straight or slightly curved spines, bear deciduous foliage composed of 5 to 11 oval to lanceolate leaflets, finely toothed and medium green in summer. The leaves, when crushed, release a distinctive aromatic scent due to the presence of essential oils.

Flowering occurs in spring, before or at the same time as the foliage emerges. The small yellowish flowers, grouped in dense clusters, are unisexual and borne on separate plants (a dioecious species). The fruits, which develop on female plants, are small reddish capsules that split open at maturity to release shiny black seeds.

Northern prickly-ash grows naturally in woodland edges, thickets, rocky slopes, and well-drained riverbanks. It prefers rich, fresh, but well-drained soils, and tolerates a range of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. In Quebec, it is found in southern woodland and riparian areas, where it is recognized by its spiny stems and aromatic fragrance.

Medicinal and culinary uses
All parts of the plant — bark, leaves, fruits, and roots — have aromatic and medicinal properties. The bark and berries have traditionally been used as a stimulant, tonic, and analgesic, particularly to relieve toothaches, joint pain, and rheumatism. In decoctions or infusions, they can act as a carminative, sudorific, and digestive stimulant.

Culinarily, prickly ash, sometimes refered to as “prickly-ash pepper,” belongs to the same family as Sichuan pepper and Japanese sansho, although it is not a true pepper botanically. Its fruits offer a rich and complex fragrance, blending citrus notes reminiscent of clementine, mandarin, and lime, with a slightly numbing effect on the tongue. Their pungency is more subtle than that of Sichuan pepper. Prickly-ash pepper can be used whole or ground in fish, seafood, or poultry dishes, as well as to enhance Asian-inspired recipes, citrus desserts, and aromatic vinaigrettes. Its aromas are particularly well expressed in a fatty medium such as oil or butter.

Ecological roles
Northern prickly-ash provides shelter and food for local wildlife. Its spring flowers supply nectar and pollen to various pollinating insects, particularly native bees. Its fruits are consumed by certain birds, which contribute to seed dispersal. It also serves as a host plant for several butterfly species, including the giant swallowtail (Papilio cresphontes), whose caterpillars feed on its leaves.

Northern prickly-ash seeds require cold stratification to ensure germination. See the cultivation notes below for more details.

Akène cannot assume any responsibility for the use of plants for therapeutic purposes. Always seek advice from a professional before using a medicinal or edible plant.