Zanthoxylum simulans

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Zanthoxylum simulans

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Sichuan pepperShrub, Tree, DeciduousFamily: Rutaceae

Height: 3mSpread: 2m
Hardy

Attractive to wildlife
Autumn colour

Flower colour:

White

Yellow

Foliage colour:

Green

Position

Sun Exposure:

Dappled shade, full sun

Aspect:

South facing, west facing

Position in Border:

Back

Soil

Acidic / Chalky / Alkaline / Clay / Heavy / Moist / Well Drained / Light / Sandy

The Sichuan pepper, Zanthoxylum simulans, is a much under-appreciated deciduous shrub or small tree that offers so many reasons to grow it.

Hailing from China and Taiwan, it bears attractive compound leaves like those of ash and clusters of elder-like, cream flowers in late spring and early summer. In autumn bright red fruits ripen and gradually split open to reveal glossy black seeds within. As autumn progresses, the leaves turn a vivid shade of yellow, contrasting beautifully with the red fruits. To top it all off, the leaves, bark and fruits are all aromatic, with a spicy, citrusy scent. The red seed cases are edible and can be used as a pepper substitute, as are the leaves and bark. You can also find highly attractive multi-stem specimens of this shrub.

For best results, grow Zanthoxylum simulans in full sun or dappled shade in fertile, well-drained soil. It generally doesn't require pruning as it will naturally form an attractive shape as it grows. However, pruning to restrict its size can be carried out in late winter or early spring.

Plant calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecSowyesyesyes**yesPlantyesyesyesyesyes**yesFlowersyes**yesFruitsyes**yesPruneyesyesyes

Zanthoxylum ‘simulans’ and wildlife

Zanthoxylum ‘simulans’ is known for attracting bees, beneficial insects and other pollinators. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers.

Is known to attract Bees

Bees

Is known to attract Beneficial insects

Beneficial insects

Is not known to attract Birds

Birds

Is not known to attract Butterflies/Moths

Butterflies/Moths

Is known to attract Other pollinators

Other pollinators

Is Zanthoxylum ‘simulans’ poisonous?

Zanthoxylum ‘simulans’ has no toxic effects reported.

No reported toxicity to:

Is not known to attract Birds

Birds

Is not known to attract Cats

Cats

Is not known to attract Dogs

Dogs

Is not known to attract Horses

Horses

Is not known to attract Livestock

Livestock

Is not known to attract People

People