Wood: The wood is hard and
yellow, but of little use because of its small size.
Wildlife: This tree is generally of little attraction to wildlife, although the thorny branches provide good nesting sites and cover. Larvae (orange dogs) of the giant swallow-tail butterfly are often found on the twigs in the South.
Prickly ash served as folk cures for toothache and rheumatism. Xanthoxylin,
an aromatic, bitter oil which is concentrated in the bark and roots, is
commercially sought for use in medical preparations. Bark was once used
as a stimulant and home remedy for flatulence and diarrhea.
