Zanthoxylum alatum

Zanthoxylum alatum is a species of flowering plant in the Rutaceae family. It is commonly known as the winged prickly ash or toothache tree. This plant is native to Northern India, Pakistan, and Nepal, and is also found in the temperate and subtropical regions of China and Taiwan.

Description

The Zanthoxylum alatum is a deciduous shrub or small tree that grows up to 6 meters tall. It has a greyish bark and the branches are armed with conical, woody spines. The leaves are pinnate, with 5-11 leaflets, each leaflet 2-4 cm long and 1-2 cm broad. The flowers are small, with five yellowish petals. The fruit is a two-valved capsule containing two black seeds.

Uses

The bark, leaves, and seeds of Zanthoxylum alatum are used in traditional medicine for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. The plant is also used in the preparation of Sichuan pepper, a spice used in Asian cuisine. The essential oil extracted from the plant is used in perfumery and cosmetics.

Cultivation

Zanthoxylum alatum prefers well-drained soil and can grow in both light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils. It can tolerate drought and can grow in semi-shade or no shade. The plant is usually propagated by seeds.

Conservation Status

The Zanthoxylum alatum is not currently listed as threatened or endangered. However, overharvesting for its medicinal and culinary uses could potentially threaten its populations in the wild.

See Also

• Rutaceae
• Sichuan pepper
• Traditional medicine