Osage orange (Maclura pomifera)

Osage orange in Fort Collins.

Species info:

Leaves: Alternate, simple, oblong to ovate, 3–5 inches long and 2–3 inches wide, with a short spine at the base of each leaf. Shiny dark green above, paler below; turn bright yellow in fall.

Leaf Surface: Smooth and glossy on top, lighter beneath.

Bark: Gray-brown and furrowed with age; younger bark may show orange tones. Thorns are present along branches and occasionally on the trunk.

Flowers: Small, pale green, and inconspicuous; male and female flowers occur on separate trees (dioecious).

Fruit: Spherical, rough-textured, yellow-green, 4–5 inches in diameter; made up of fused drupes filled with sticky, milky sap. Inedible but consumed by squirrels and livestock; often called “hedge apples.”

Botanical: Maclura pomifera

Family: Moraceae

Mature Height: 20–40 feet

Canopy Spread: 20–40 feet

Foliage Type: Deciduous

Tree Shape: Rounded, spreading crown with open branching

Growth Rate: Fast

Fall Color: Bright yellow

Water Use: Low to moderate once established

Hardiness: Zones 5–9A

Soil Preference: Prefers well-drained soils; tolerant of poor, dry, compacted, or alkaline soils once established

Wildlife Value: Provides dense cover and nesting habitat; seeds eaten by squirrels and some mammals

Pests/Pathogens: Few serious problems; generally pest- and disease-free

Planting Recommendations: Considered a tree with potential along the Front Range; transplants poorly; select thornless, male varieties

Information Sources:

• Michael A. Dirr. Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Timber Press. 2011