southern prickly-ash

Southern Prickly-Ash should be watered regularly, 1-2 times per week, using just enough water to keep the soil moist. During these watering sessions, water deeply to ensure that the entire root system receives adequate moisture. If the soil is dry to the touch it is time to water. In summer, the frequency may be increased slightly while in winter watering can be decreased. In general, southern prickly-ash plants prefer a lot of humidity and soil that is not allowed to completely dry out between watering sessions. Soil should be damp, but not soggy. Drainage is also important, so waterlogged soil should be avoided.

Southern prickly-ash (Zanthoxylum clava-herculis) generally does best in full sunlight. Plants will benefit from 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Too little sunlight may lead to stunted growth and decreased flowering, while too much may cause wilting and sunburn. If possible, it is best to position the southern prickly-ash plant in a location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade to help protect it from the intense summer heat. Southern prickly-ash will tolerate partial shade, but will not thrive and bloom as well as when grown in full sunlight.

Southern prickly-ash (Zanthoxylum clava-herculis) should be pruned during the Summer when the plant is actively growing. Pruning should be done conservatively, only removing about 1-third of the existing growth. This will keep the plant healthy and promote new growth. Feel free to shape the plant however much you'd like, but be aware that you should not prune off more than 1-third. Proper pruning is a great way to ensure that your southern prickly-ash stays looking neat and healthy.