Smooth Sumac
rhus glabra
Also known as: ["Staghorn Sumac","White Sumac"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to North America, known for its pinnate leaves and red fruit clusters.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus: | Rhus |
| Botanical Name: | Rhus glabra |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–34–43°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate. Remove up to one-third of old growth if rejuvenation is needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is best; avoid deep shade; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; prioritize deep watering over frequent shallow watering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with compost if needed.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–9. Prefers temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates winter lows to -30°F (-34°C) and summer highs to 90°F (32°C).
Protect from frost in early spring; water deeply before a heatwave; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize only if growth is poor; use a balanced formula; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are more reliable for maintaining cultivar traits.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer for stem cuttings; fall for seed propagation.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended for stem cuttings to improve rooting success.
Timeline
Stem cuttings root in 4–8 weeks; seed germination varies widely (weeks to months).
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to remove entire branches back to the trunk or main stems; heading cuts to shorten branches and encourage bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove deadwood, and encourage bushier growth. Best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead or damaged wood first; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
+2–3 inches in diameter for container plants.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Not typically required for outdoor plants. Container-grown plants may need repotting every 2–3 years if root-bound.
Checklist
Check for root-bound roots; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during the growing season; reduce frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter; ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf scorch in excessive heat; stunted growth or dieback in prolonged cold without protection.
Cold Stress
Leaves may drop or turn yellow; growth slows or halts; roots may freeze in poorly drained soil.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; avoid planting in low-lying areas where cold air settles; ensure soil is well-drained to prevent root freeze.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature leaf drop; reduced flowering or fruiting.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; water deeply to cool roots; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil fertility before fertilizing; use a balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply sparingly, as Rhus glabra is not heavy feeder. Avoid fertilizing in late summer to prevent new growth vulnerable to frost.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Rhus glabra may experience mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic to cats, but ingestion can cause mild symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Rhus glabra by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not highly toxic to dogs, but consumption may cause discomfort and mild symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicRhus glabra, commonly known as smooth sumac, contains compounds that can cause skin irritation upon contact and mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic for individuals with sensitive skin or pre-existing conditions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched or eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Smooth Sumac toxic to humans?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic if ingested, but its berries are often used to make a lemonade-like drink.
Q: Does Smooth Sumac attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it provides food and habitat for birds and other wildlife.
Q: How fast does Smooth Sumac grow?
A: It is a fast-growing shrub, often spreading via rhizomes.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Anacardiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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