The Dawes Arboretum

Common name: White Shield Osage-orange, White Shield hedge-apple

Family: Moraceae (mulberry family)

Distribution: Species native to s.-c. United States, Mexico

Hardiness: USDA Zone 4

Life form: Deciduous tree

Comments: A deciduous tree with simple, glossy, dark green leaves. The greenish flowers are insignificant but this male selection means no large, green fruit produced as on female specimens. This is the most thorn-free selection found so far. This vigorous clone can grow 30-40' tall and wide, usually low-branched. Found near Hammond, OK, named for a Cheyenne chief by one report but more likely for White Shield Creek where it was found. Very adaptable and tough tree, tolerating even poor, wet or dry soils and is deer browse resistant. Use as a shade tree or a windbreak. Best sited in full sun, moist, well-drained soil.