Originally from the South-Central United States, the Osage orange quickly spread across the country because pioneers used it to create natural fencing. Before barbed wire existed, Osage orange hedgerows were the go-to livestock barrier. 

You’ll spot an Osage orange easily when you know what to look for:

• Large, bumpy, bright-green fruit often called "monkey balls"

• Strong, thorny branches

• Glossy green leaves

• Extremely dense, yellow-tinted wood

Even though many people ignore them, Osage orange trees are incredibly valuable:

• Crafting wood – one of the hardest, most durable native woods

• Long-burning firewood

• Natural insect repellent (folk remedy)

• Seeds for growing new saplings

• Decorative fruit for crafts and fall displays