prickly ash - Zanthoxylum americanum

Common Name: prickly ash, toothache tree

Scientific Name: 
Family: Rutaceae
Genus: Zanthoxylum
Species: americanum

Hardiness Zone: 3 to 7
Height: 15 to 20 ft
Width: 10 to 15 ft

Description: ​​​The prickly ash can be found in the forest understory but can also carve out a niche in plains areas of Minnesota. This shrub can spread by seed or by root suckers. The spreading can end up being invasive if not held in check.  The fruit has a citrus aroma and has a numbing effect.