Cockspur Thorn
Maclura cochinchinensis
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Pl. 1022 — Maclura cochinchinensis
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IOverview
Overview
Cockspur Thorn, scientifically known as Maclura cochinchinensis, is a deciduous tree native to the eastern and southeastern regions of Asia, including countries such as Assam, Bangladesh, Cambodia, China South-Central and Southeast, and Vietnam. This plant thrives in full sun and can grow up to 10 meters tall. It is known for its ornamental value due to its distinctive thorns that resemble cockspurs, hence the common name. Cockspur Thorn is also valued for its edible parts, specifically its fruit and leaves, making it a useful addition to gardens or landscapes where its light requirements and soil adaptability ensure successful growth in various conditions from sandy to clay soils.
Quick answers
What is Cockspur Thorn?
Cockspur Thorn, scientifically known as Maclura cochinchinensis, is a deciduous tree native to the eastern and southeastern regions of Asia, including countries such as Assam, Bangladesh, Cambodia, China South-Central and Southeast, and Vietnam.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Cockspur Thorn thrives in full sun and prefers light to heavy soil types, though it can adapt to medium conditions. It is hardy in temperate regions with a range of 10-12. This plant can grow up to 10 meters tall and is suitable for gardens where fruit and leaves are desired as edible parts. For propagation, the method isn't specified but generally, trees like this can be grown from seeds or cuttings.
Light
Full sun
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
10.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Cockspur Thorn for the first time
8steps
Start with Cockspur Thorn in a sunny spot, using basic care and avoiding common pitfalls.
- 1
What you'll need
A Cockspur Thorn sapling or seeds, a container if planting indoors, potting soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the last frost has passed and temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant saplings carefully to avoid damaging roots. For seeds, sow in spring after last frost.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Place the plant in a sheltered spot if outdoors.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Provide full sun exposure and regular pruning for shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune during late winter or early spring to maintain shape and remove dead branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy shade, neglecting pruning, using unsuitable soil types, and not providing enough sun exposure.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitLeaves
Edible uses: The fruit and leaves of the Cockspur Thorn (Maclura cochinchinensis) are edible. The fruit can be eaten raw or used in various preparations, while the leaves are often prepared as a potherb, added to soups or stir-fries. Both parts are typically consumed fresh but can also be dried for later use.
Other uses:Dye
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 30 native
Asia11 regions
native (11)ChinaIndiaJapanLaosMyanmarNepalPhilippinesSri LankaTaiwanThailandVietnam
Oceania1 region
native (1)New Caledonia
Broader regions
native:Borneo, Christmas I., East Himalaya, Hainan, Jawa, Lesser Sunda Is., Malaya, Maluku, Nansei-shoto, New Guinea, New South Wales, Nicobar Is., Queensland, Sulawesi, Sumatera, West Himalaya
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 1022e280-9cd8-4bae-8d5f-632c9c182eec
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