Maclura pomifera

Osage orange species

Moraceae › Maclura

The thorny Osage orange tree is in the mulberry or Moraceae family and is widely naturalized throughout the United States. It grows up to 17 m tall.

  • Leaves are simple, alternate, ovate, untoothed, glossy green above and long slender points; they are 8–13 cm long and 5–8 c wide. In autumn they turn bright yellow.
  • Twigs are zigzag, with formidable spines about 2.5 cm long at the leaf axles.
  • The fruit is wrinkled, green and round, 10 cm across.

Contributors

  • Colin Beale
  • Kata Tolgyesi
  • Philippe de Spoelberch