Maclura

Maclura is the botanical name for a medium sized, spiny tree called the Osage Orange. This tree can grow up to 60 feet in height and was originally found growing from Arkansas to Texas. This tree is mainly grown for interest as it isn't a particularly beautiful tree. It grows well in other parts of the country besides its native range. It is valued as a hedge plant and as a tree for windbreaks and poor soil. The leaves are simple and alternately arranged on the twigs. They are ovate with pointed tips and smooth edges. They grow from 3 to 5 inches long and 2 or 3 inches wide. They are shiny dark green on top and paler and smooth beneath. Male and female flowers grow on separate trees, but neither have any decorative value. The interesting fruits resemble oranges, thus the common name, Osage Orange. They are fairly large with wrinkled skin and are colored green at first, turning an orange hue later. The "oranges" consist of a number of closely packed drupes, which when punctured, secrete a bitter, milky juice that turns black upon exposure. The wood of this tree is hardy, strong and durable and has a bright orange color. The Indians used it for making bows and it has been considered to be one of the best bow woods. Because of this, it has been given other common names such as "Bow-wood" and "Bois d'arc". It is also used for fence posts, insulator pins, pulley docks and a number of other things. The wood also produces a bright yellow dye.

Pot Cultivation

The Osage Orange grows well in any good soil.

Propagation

Seeds may be sown outside in the fall and cuttings or root cuttings may be used.

M. pomifera

VARIETIES

M. pomifera & a spineless variety called inermis