Prickly Ash is a native deciduous tree commonly found in rural areas. Its trunk is characterized by triangular thorns, while young trees are completely covered in dense thorns across their branches and leaves. This earned it the Chinese nickname “鷹不泊”, as its thorny structure prevents birds from landing on it.

Despite being unwelcoming to birds, Prickly Ash is favoured by insects. The butterflies Common Mormon and Spangle lay their eggs on the leaves, while its pale yellow flowers that bloom in summer attract nectarivorous insects.