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Zanthoxylum fagara, commonly known as Wild Lime, is a small evergreen tree or thorny shrub typically growing 10-30 feet (3-10 m) tall.
Growth Form
Upright to spreading habit
Often multi-stemmed
Dense branching
Armed with sharp thorns along stems and branches
Bark
Gray to brown
Rough and slightly fissured
May bear prickles on younger growth
Leaves
Compound (oddly pinnate)
Alternately arranged
Small oval leaflets
Glossy green
Aromatic when crushed
As a member of the citrus family (Rutaceae), the foliage releases a strong citrus scent when handled.
Flowers
Small and greenish-white
Inconspicuous
Produced in clusters
Plants may be male or female
Fruit
Small round capsule
Green turning reddish-brown
Splits open when mature
Reveals shiny black seeds
The fruit resembles tiny peppercorn-like capsules.
Habitat
Zanthoxylum fagara grows in Dry Broadleaf Evergreen Formation- Shrublands (coppice/scrublands) particularly those that have been disturbed by humans.
Distribution
Zanthoxylum fagara occurs on all island groups in the Lucayan Archipelago as well as the southern United States, the Caribbean region, and Mexico and Central America.
Ecological Importance
Host plant for certain butterfly species (including citrus-related swallowtails)
Flowers provide nectar for insects
Fruits eaten by birds
Contributes to forest biodiversity
Wild Lime plays a valuable ecological role despite its thorny appearance.
Cultural Notes
Historically used in medicinally for general strengthening teas
Hard, durable wood for cabinetry
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