Zanthoxylum piperitum
Sichuan pepper
A bushy, spiny, deciduous shrub with 15cm-long leaves composed of many oval, aromatic, glossy, dark green leaflets which turn yellow in autumn. The bark and fruit are also aromatic. Sprays of small, yellow-green flowers are produced in early summer, followed by tiny, red fruit that split open to reveal black seeds
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Yellow | Green | ||
| Autumn | Yellow | Black Red | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Rutaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Potentially harmful
- Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Genus
Zanthoxylum are broadly rounded to upright, spiny, deciduous or evergreen trees and shrubs. They have aromatic bark and leaves. Sprays of small green or yellow-green flowers appear in spring or summer, followed by small fruits that split to reveal seeds attached by short threads
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- China, Japan, Korea
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in fertile, well drained soil in full sun or light, dappled shade
Propagation
Propagate by seed, or root semi-ripe cuttings in midsummer with bottom heat, or take root cuttings in late winter
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Low Maintenance
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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