Online Plant Guide | Toothache Tree in Austin, Texas

---

Looking for a specific item?  Check out Leaf Landscape Supply's Online Inventory to see our full selection of onsite inventory. If you can't find what you are looking for, Submit A Custom Request and one our team members can help with a special order for your residential or commercial needs!

---

 

Selecting and Buying a Toothache Tree for Your Austin, Texas Landscape

Are you looking for a unique addition to your Austin, Texas landscape that not only adds visual interest but also has practical uses? The toothache tree, also known as the Zanthoxylum clava-herculis, could be the perfect choice for your garden. This guide will help you understand more about the toothache tree, including how to select and buy one for your Austin, Texas landscape.

Introduction to the Toothache Tree

The toothache tree is a small deciduous tree or large shrub that is native to the southeastern United States, making it well-suited for the climate in Austin, Texas. It derives its name from the intense numbing sensation that is experienced when the bark or leaves are chewed, providing relief from toothaches. However, in addition to its medicinal properties, the toothache tree has ornamental value, with its attractive foliage, unique bark, and clusters of small, fragrant flowers.

The tree’s visual appeal and potential medicinal uses make it a desirable choice for landscaping in Austin, Texas. But before you purchase a toothache tree, it’s important to consider various aspects to ensure it thrives in your local climate and complements your landscape design.

The Local Climate and Soil Conditions

Before selecting and buying a toothache tree for your Austin, Texas landscape, it’s crucial to understand the local climate and soil conditions. Austin experiences a subtropical climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The toothache tree thrives in such conditions, as it prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is also known to tolerate various soil types, including sandy and loamy soils, which are common in the area.

Considering the climate and soil conditions in Austin, the toothache tree is well-suited for the region, making it a practical and visually appealing addition to your landscape.

Selecting the Right Variety

When selecting a toothache tree for your landscape, you’ll want to consider the different varieties available. The straight species, Zanthoxylum clava-herculis, is a popular choice, known for its robust growth and attractive features. The Hercules club, as it is commonly called, boasts large, spiny branches and a rugged, textured bark, adding a unique architectural element to your landscape.

Another option to consider is the Zanthoxylum fagara, a closely related species known for its smaller size and finer foliage. Both of these varieties can thrive in Austin’s climate and provide visual interest throughout the year.

Choosing the Right Location

Once you’ve decided on the variety, it’s time to choose the right location for your toothache tree. As previously mentioned, the tree prefers full sun to partial shade, so look for a spot in your landscape that receives adequate sunlight. Additionally, ensure that the chosen location has well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging, which can be detrimental to the tree’s health.

Considering the size of the tree at maturity, make sure to allocate enough space for it to grow without interfering with other plants or structures in your landscape. Planning the location carefully will contribute to the long-term health and beauty of your toothache tree.

Purchasing a Healthy Tree

When it comes to purchasing a toothache tree, it’s important to ensure that you are getting a healthy specimen. Look for local nurseries or garden centers in Austin, Texas, that specialize in native plants and trees, as they are more likely to carry the toothache tree and can provide valuable guidance on its care and maintenance.

Inspect the trees available, checking for any signs of disease, damage, or stress. Choose a tree with a straight, sturdy trunk and healthy foliage. Avoid trees with wilted or yellowing leaves, as these could be indicators of underlying issues.

Planting and Care

Once you’ve purchased your toothache tree, it’s time to prepare for planting and ongoing care. The ideal time to plant a toothache tree in Austin, Texas is during the cooler months of fall and winter, allowing the tree to establish its root system before the onset of summer heat.

Dig a hole that is as deep as the root ball and twice as wide, ensuring that the tree is planted at the same depth as it was in the nursery container. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it gently to eliminate air pockets. Water the tree thoroughly after planting to help it settle into its new environment.

In terms of ongoing care, water the tree regularly, especially during periods of drought, to ensure proper hydration. Consider applying a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to conserve moisture and suppress weed growth. Prune the tree as needed to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.

Wrapping up

The toothache tree can be a valuable addition to your Austin, Texas landscape, providing both visual appeal and potential medicinal benefits. By recognizing the local climate and soil conditions, selecting the right variety, choosing the appropriate location, purchasing a healthy tree, and providing proper care, you can successfully incorporate this unique tree into your landscape design.

With its adaptability to Austin’s climate and its striking features, the toothache tree offers an opportunity to enhance the beauty and functionality of your outdoor space, making it a worthwhile investment for any garden enthusiast in Austin, Texas.