Japanese pepper tree (Zanthoxylum piperitum) | seeds, 10 pcs.

FROST TOLERANT

• Latin name: Zanthoxylum piperitum
• Danish names: Japansk sichuanpeber, Japansk pebertræ
  
• English names: Japanese pepper, Japanese prickly ash
  

Zanthoxylum piperitum, also known as Japanese pepper, is an aromatic and multi-branched shrub or small tree native to Japan and Korea, where it has been used in both cooking and medicine for centuries. It belongs to the same plant genus as the well-known Sichuan pepper (Zanthoxylum simulans) and bears the characteristic, spicy seed husks used as a spice.

The plant has decorative, finely pinnate leaves with a fresh citrus scent that is released when rubbed. In the spring, Zanthoxylum piperitum blooms with small, yellow-green flowers, and later in the summer it develops red seed capsules that open to reveal black seeds. It is primarily the dried, slightly tingling fruit husks that are used in Japanese and Korean cuisine, where they are known as "sanshō".

The shrub grows densely and slightly pendulous with many shoots from the base and small thorns along the branches. It can reach a height of 2–3 meters and is suitable as an ornamental plant, a useful plant, and as an aromatic hedge or windbreak.

Zanthoxylum piperitum is hardy and can be grown outdoors in Denmark in sun to partial shade. It thrives in ordinary, well-drained garden soil and requires minimal care once established. It tolerates pruning well and can be shaped as desired. The plant is dioecious – meaning you need both a male and a female plant to produce fruit.

Utility value:
The greatest value lies in the fruit husks, which have a characteristic, citrusy, and slightly numbing flavor that is used as a spice in both whole and ground form – especially for fish, meat, and noodle dishes. The young shoots and leaves can also be used as a fresh, aromatic herb. In addition, the plant has been used in traditional Asian medicine for its digestive and circulation-promoting properties.

Zanthoxylum piperitum is an obvious choice for those who want an unusual and multifunctional plant in the garden – with both culinary potential, aromatic fragrance, and a slightly exotic expression. An ideal combination of beauty and utility.