Hedge apples, also known as Osage oranges, grow on a type of tree scientifically known as Maclura pomifera. This species belongs to the Moraceae family, which is the same family most plants classified as mulberries are associated with. The Osage orange is the only known plant to grow a hard, green, rounded fruit referred to as a hedge apple or Osage orange.
The trees that bear hedge apples are deciduous trees, meaning they lose their leaves annually. They typically reach heights between 15 and 25 feet and have a width between 12 and 18 feet. The branches of a hedge apple tree have a yellowish, olive-green to a silvery-green color and have short, sharp spines. This type of tree develops numerous ridges on its dark-gray bark and its twigs are generally covered in a thick, pubescent layer of down.
Hedge apple trees are native to North America and favor moist, well-drained soils. However, they can also grow in drier soils and don’t need a lot of sunlight. They are mostly found throughout Oklahoma, Texas and other areas in the Midwest, but they can grow in a variety of U.S. zones. The trees are also found in Central America and Mexico.
When growing hedge apples, they can take up to five years to produce full-sized fruits. They are known to produce a large fruit that can range from 2.5 to 5 inches in diameter and weigh up to 2 pounds. These large, almost hard-shelled fruits are generally about 3 inches thick and have a light-green to yellow hue on them. Their flesh is mealy and contains a sticky, orange-colored juice.
Hedge apples are a great addition to any garden or landscape. They are a unique, decorative tree and its fruits can add a unique flair or flavor to various recipes. Hedge apples can also be put to various uses, from insect repellent to traditional ornamental decorations.
Uses of Hedge Apples
Hedge apples are beneficial in several ways, not just aesthetically pleasing. They have the ability to repel spiders and other pests, making them an ideal insect repellent, especially around outdoor surfaces such as patios, decks and entryways. Hedge apples also contain certain compounds that make them unsuitable for consumption by certain animals, such as deer and rabbits.
In addition to being useful as a natural pest-repellent, hedge apples can also be used for medicinal purposes, particularly for people suffering from colds and flu. The pulp of the fruit contains substances similar to those found in a type of concentrate made from an extract of fragrant oranges from the Caribbean, referred to as Jericho flowers. The pulp has been used for medicinal purposes, historically, to treat bronchitis, coughs, cramps and even as a laxative.
The oils from the fruit have also been used for many types of ailments, ranging from ailments of the skin, to wounds and even tooth decay. Hedge apples have also been used as a natural dyeing agent, due to the orange-red color of the pulp. Additionally, the pulp has been used to make jams, jellies and fruit juices.
Symbolic Meaning of Hedge Apple Trees
Osage oranges are also associated with some symbolic meanings, namely due to their unique shape and unique appearance. The rounded shape of the fruit is associated with health, prosperity and fertility. Because these trees have a tendency to live for many years and thrive in harsh conditions, there is an association with resilience.
The wood from the hedge apple tree has also been highly sought after, due to its ability to produce bright oranges and yellows when burned. This has been seen as a symbol of light, joy and new beginnings – something associated with optimism and good luck. This is why the wood of the tree is so often used in the crafting of spiritual objects, such as wands.
Nutritional Value of Hedge Apples
Due to their tough texture and sour taste, hedge apples are mostly inedible, yet they still offer some nutritional value. They contain several vitamins, minerals and other compounds, including vitamin C, beta carotene, riboflavin, niacin and potassium. They are a source of dietary fiber as well, but since the fruits are generally not eaten raw or cooked, most of their trace minerals and vitamins are destroyed. The nutraceutical benefits of hedge apples, therefore, are likely to be limited.
Harvesting of Hedge Apples
When it comes to harvesting hedge apples, the fruit is generally picked from the tree when it is ripe, which is usually sometime between mid-August and October. It is best to use gloves when retrieving the fruit to avoid exposure to the small spines on its surface. Once picked, the fruits are usually left to dry in the sun for a few days before they can be used. The fruits can then be stored in cool, dry places, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
Preservation of Hedge Apples
Hedge apples that have been preserved can keep their shape and flavor for several months. To do this, the fruits should first be peeled and then dried in an airtight container, before being stored in the freezer. Once frozen, the fruits can last for up to a year. They can also be canned, pickled or frozen in syrup, as long as they are processed correctly.
Uses of Hedge Apple Wood
The wood from hedge apple trees is highly valued for its strength, resilience, and bright colors. It is often used to make furniture, pallets and tool handles, as it is resistant to moisture, rot and decay. The wood is also a popular choice for carving, due to the colors produced when it is worked. The wood is also commonly used in bows, gunstocks, and musical instruments.
