Submitted by Friends of West 11th Street Park

As the summer warms up, many of us are escaping the heat on the cool, shaded trails in West 11th Street Park. The rich diversity of flora and fauna often pique curiosities of visitors, but none more than the fascinating Hercules Club tree. This medium-sized tree is a native in the southeastern United States and is notable for its distinctive spined lumps that grow upon the bark.  

The full botanical name for this species, Zanthoxylum clava-herculis, roughly translates to the "yellow wood club of Hercules" referencing the baton carried by the classic Roman mythological hero and god known for his strength and far-ranging adventures. And, while the spiky bark and branches of this citrus-family member are both fierce and notable, the unique powers of this perennial grower lie in its pinnately compound leaves.

Used for medicinal purposes by Native Americans and early settlers, the Hercules Club tree is often referred to as the “toothache tree” or “tingle tongue” as chewing the leaves of this plant can cause a numbing sensation in the mouth. The tree was used as a remedy for toothaches and to ease teething pain for babies. 

As with many citrus family plants, the Hercules Club tree is the preferred food for caterpillars of the Great Swallowtail butterfly. This time of year, be on the lookout for the large black and yellow winged creatures hovering around the leaves of the tree, touching her abdomen to the leaves as she lays eggs for the next generation of Swallowtail butterflies.

July is also when the Hercules Tree’s branches are laden with purple berries that attract a variety of birds. After eating the fruit, the birds help to distribute the seeds of the Hercules Club tree throughout the park and surrounding area where they can flourish in sunny locations sprouting new saplings. 

Look for the Hercules Club tree on your next visit to the Park at the trailhead on the western edge between Woodbrook and Pineshade Lanes. With its characteristic, warty look, you can't miss this stand-out!

Is there a plant or animal in the park that you'd like to learn more about? Explore our “life in the park” section on the West 11th Street Park website.