Osage Orange

An unusual tree from south-central USA, Maclura pomifera is a medium-sized, deciduous tree with a rather spreading, rounded habit, thorny when young (a defence against grazing animals) but becoming less thorny when mature. The pointed, ovate, deep green leaves, 4”/10cm long, turn yellow in autumn. Small, greenish-yellow flowers are borne in spring, the female flowers in loose racemes, the male flowers in dense, spherical clusters; male and female trees are needed for fruiting, but the fruit is not edible, being rather bitter. These are followed by pale yellow, orange-like fruits. Osage orange makes a good hedge.

Site: Tolerates exposure
Soil: Any fertile, well-drained soil; suits chalky soils
Position: Full sun
Season of interest: Autumn in particular
Hardiness: Very hardy
Height: 49’ (15m) Spread: 39” (12m)