Zanthoxylum piperitum

Also Known As

Fagara piperita
Zanthoxylum piperitum 'Sansho'
Japanese pepper
Sansho

Plant type

tree, shrub

size

H: 8'-15'
W: 4'-6'

planting zones

6a-10b

More Options

Zanthoxylum piperitum plant details

Zanthoxylum piperitum is a broadleaf deciduous shrub or tree with green foliage. In spring chartreuse and green flowers emerge followed by red fruit. Features glossy texture. Attracts bees making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - mostly shade and regular water. Does well in average and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Zanthoxylum piperitum

Plant type: shrub or tree
Plant family: rutaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 4 FT - 6 FT - wide, 8 FT - 15 FT - tall
Flowers: chartreuse and green blooms in spring
Uses: culinary, edible, fall color

GROWING CONDITIONS for Zanthoxylum piperitum

USDA Zones: 6a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly shade
Watering frequency: regular
Resistant to: heat
Soil needs: average and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

This is a gourmet delight from the scrub and mountains of Japan! Its neat bushy habit, graceful form and its unique foliage consisting of numerous small leaflets make this quite distinct 8' shrub a fine ornamental as well. Small, yellow-green flowers produced in spring can be used for culinary purposes, the male flowers are eaten as hana-sansho, while the female (if a male is present) produce red peppercorns which are ground for spice, the young leaves can also be eaten raw or cooked. An unusual specimen for the edible garden which thrives in light shade; ours are unsexed seedlings. PSh/M