| This uncommon but widespread small tree is readily identified by its huge bipinnately compound leaves and prickly trunk. Craven Co., NC 8/27/06.
|
| Other common names include Hercules Club and Prickly-ash, but these are also used for Zanthoxylum species. Harnett Co., NC 8/18/05.
|
| In late summer Devil's-walkingstick produces a showy terminal panicle of flowers, very popular with butterflies and wasps. Harnett Co., NC 8/18/05.
|
| Craven Co., NC 8/27/06.
|
| Inflorescence detail. Craven Co., NC 8/27/06.
|
| The leaves are massive -- an average leaf (like this one) has over 100 leaflets! Chapel Hill, NC 9/9/06.
|
| Bud and leaf scar. Chapel Hill, NC 9/9/06.
|
| The name Devil's-walkingstick comes from the trunks of small trees, which are armed with many stout prickles. Craven Co., NC 8/27/06.
|
| Note the large U-shaped leaf scar. Harnett Co., NC 8/18/05.
|
| Carteret Co., NC 9/28/2008.
|
| The bark of a larger tree may lack prickles. Chapel Hill, NC 9/9/06.
|
