Maclura pomifera aka Osage Orange

Taxonomy

Maclura pomifera, also known as the Osage orange, is a small deciduous tree or large shrub native to the south-central United States. It can grow up to 70 feet tall, with a short trunk, irregular crown, and spiny branches. The fruit is a distinctive multiple fruit that turns bright yellow-green in the fall, although it is not edible for humans due to its woody pulp and sticky white latex secretion. The fruit's natural pesticide juices and seeds are consumed by squirrels. The Osage orange belongs to the mulberry family, Moraceae, and has many names, including horse apple, hedge apple, mock orange, and monkey ball. It has naturalized in many areas of the eastern United States and is often planted in tight hedgerows to contain livestock. The tree's dense, rot-resistant wood and thorny branches make it a valuable addition to many landscapes. Ecologists have proposed that the fruit of the Osage orange is an example of an evolutionary anachronism, having coevolved with a now-extinct animal seed dispersal partner.

Common names

Osage Orange, Hedge Apple, Bow Wood

How to care for Osage Orange

Difficulty

Osage Orange requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Soil

Osage Orange loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Osage Orange requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Osage Orange will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Osage Orange to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Region of origin

Osage Orange’s native range is Southeastern N. America - Arkansas to Texas.


More info:
Wikipedia