Sometimes common names for plants are spot on. Devil’s Walking Stick is just such a well-named plant. Also known as Hercules’ Club, this understory tree sports thorns and spines that are designed to keep animals from eating it – and others from touching it – like us! Apart from its prickly nature, this understory tree has a number of features that make it stand out to those of us that pay close attention to details of plants.
For one, the leaves on a mature tree are the largest of any in the eastern U.S. From branch to tip, these bipinnately compound leaves can reach upwards of 60 inches in length and up to 30 inches in width. This size is deceptive given the dissected nature of the leaf. Each leaf consists of a main vein, with secondary veins branching out at slight angles, each adorned with 5-11 leaflets. Altogether, each leaf can have dozens of equal-sized leaflets.
Most leaves are also attached directly to the main trunk of the tree, dropping off before winter, leaving a largely, unadorned trunk as it grows taller. Mature trees can have multiple, upward growing branches near the top, giving the tree an umbrella-like shape. After leaves drop in the fall, the plant takes on the look of a spiky stick that is reflective of its name.
For plant nerds, it is the nature of the base of each leaf and the leaf scars that are left behind that are also unique and interesting. The large leaves require a sturdy anchor where they are attached to the trunk. For Devil’s Walking Stick, the bases of their leaf petioles (base of the leaf) are known as clasping – reaching around the stem as if grabbing it for dear life. This structure is necessary to hold up such a large leaf.
When leaves detach, the scar left behind includes numerous circular scars of the vessels that carried water and nutrients to and from the leaves. These scars are hard to miss and remain visible on the trunk for some time, making winter identification of this plant easy. Large thorns are present around these scars that also persist to help discourage critters from climbing the trunk. As if that was not enough, spines are also present along the secondary veins and the underside of each leaflet. If you are going for the prickly shtick, go all out!
On mature trees, an equally prominent cluster of flowering stalks produce white to cream-colored flowers, followed by purple berries on attractive red stems that are relished by many birds. The numerous flowers attract a wide variety of pollinators. And while there are undoubtedly some insects and other herbivores that do find a way around the thorns and spines, most critters avoid this spiky, yet dramatic tree. Devil’s Walking Stick is reported to be one of the many host plants for the Common Emerald Moth (Hemithea aestivaria).
So, do keep an eye out for this interesting tree when you wander your favorite woodlands and take the time to check out its unique characteristics. You won’t be disappointed, unless you feel the need to give it a hug. And although you will not find this plant in most plant nurseries, it does make an attractive addition to any landscape and supports lots of pollinators and birds.
Hope to see you in our great outdoors!