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 fruits are purplish-black.

Carteret Co., NC 9/28/2008.

Carteret Co., NC 9/28/2008.

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.

Bark detail with bud and leaf scar.

Carteret Co., NC 9/28/2008.