Pronounced (approximate): zan-THOK-sih-lum a-mer-ih-KAY-num
Also called Northern Prickly Ash, this prickly shrub belongs to the citrus family. The photographs follow its flowers, compound leaves, red capsules and bare twigs through the seasons.
Prickly Ash: select a photograph for a closer look.
Family: Rutaceae
Growth form: Deciduous shrub or small tree
Habitat: Woodland edges, streambanks and rocky slopes
Key feature: Paired prickles and red seed capsules
Explore reported observations. Sightings are not a complete range map.
Look along woodland margins and in thickets. Bare twigs reveal prickles and buds; flowering and fruiting branches provide additional seasonal clues.
Despite its name, Prickly Ash is not a true ash. Green Ash has opposite leaves and winged fruits. Black Locust also has compound leaves and paired prickles, but typically has blunt-ended leaflets and produces pods.
The twig photographs show paired prickles and reddish buds. Follow a twig from node to node to see the alternate arrangement.
The pointed leaflets have finely toothed edges. Small yellow-green flowers appear on bare twigs before leaves expand.
The red structures are capsules rather than berries. As they open, shiny dark seeds become visible. The gallery includes both leafy fruiting branches and closer views.
12 field photographs. Select a photograph to enlarge it and browse the slideshow.
Native to North America, including Wisconsin. Often forms colonies along woodland edges.
Field photographs: Where’s Wildlife.
The Morton Arboretum: Prickly Ash · UW–Green Bay: Northern Prickly Ash
Spotted a possible identification error or have an observation to share? Leave a comment below. For an ID correction, include the photo filename and the features that support your suggestion.