Zanthoxylum simulans (Sichuan pepper) Herb Tree

Sichuan pepper (Zanthoxylum simulans)Herb in 2 litre Pot

The Sichuan pepper is a bushy, prickly, medium to large deciduous shrub or small tree, depending on growing conditions and pruning regime. It has leaves which are similar in appearance to the Ash which gives rise to one of its common names of 'Prickly Ash' they are up to 8cm long with up to 11 broad leaflets. they turn a lovely golden in Autumn. Flat-topped sprays of small, yellow-green flowers are produced in early summer, followed by open clusters of small, pinkish-red fruits that split open to reveal black seeds. Leaves, bark and fruit are all aromatic, this plant gives you the excuse to stop as you pass and to rub the leaves for their heady hit of spice and citrus. 

Grow in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or light, dappled shade, it will need a sheltered spot and is ideal for borders or as an exotic addition to the herb garden. It can also be grown in a container. Ultimate height 2.5-5m  and spread 2.5-5m over 10-20 years, but can be pruned to contain its size and shape as desired. 

Herb Usage

The Sichuan pepper is not botanically related to black or white pepper, Szechuan pepper and a number of other members of the Zanthoxylum genus are certainly its culinary cousins and can be used as an alternative. It is a constituent of Chinese 5 spice and used a lot in Chinese cooking.

Harvesting usually late summer early Autumn just as the pinky red seedcases begin to open and show their dark seed. The outer shell is where the heat and aromatics are held (the seed is usually flavourless) but pick whole florets, leave them to dry somewhere warm for a day or two, and pop them into a peppermill. If the peppercorns are still closed in mid-autumn, pick them and lay them out on a piece of paper indoors somewhere warm and within a couple of days they should split to reveal the seeds. 

Buy Sichuan pepper Online

Our potted Sichuan pepper herb plants are generally available to buy online between March and September.