Maclura Pollen

Maclura pomifera (Osage orange) is the only species in the genus Maclura found in the United States. This tree is native to south central United States; however, was widely planted in other regions during the 19th century and has become naturalized in many states. In the 19th century in the prairie states, these trees were planted close together, and the thorns on the branches made the trees valued as a living fence. 

Osage orange is dioecious with separate male and female trees. The distinctive fruit produced on the female trees is often called a hedge apple. The fruit is hard and bitter tasting, but it is eaten by some wildlife.

Pollen grains are triporate with a large oncus beneath each pore and are 22-25 µm in diameter. In Tulsa, Maclura pollen is in the air from early or mid-April through May.