Staghorn Sumac
rhus typhina
Also known as: ["Stag's Horn Sumach"," Velvet Sumac"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree known for its velvety branches and brilliant red fall foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","seasonal color change","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus: | Rhus |
| Botanical Name: | Rhus typhina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, adaptable to various soil types
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Well-draining to moderately draining; avoid waterlogged conditions which can lead to root rot.
- Soil Type: Tolerant of a wide range of soils but prefers well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can grow in poor, rocky soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins; light pruning can be done after flowering if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if the plant is overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning th
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, though it can tolerate some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn or fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Monitor for leaf scorch in intense sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes; use shade cloth if necessary in extreme heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; avoid overwatering, especially in winter; adjust based on rainfall and soil type.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam
pH: Adaptable pH range; grows well in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend heavy clay soils with organic matter; test soil pH periodically to maintain optimal levels.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–8; tolerates cold temperatures down to -30°F (-34°C); prefers moderate temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C) during active growth.
Protect from late spring frosts; water deeply before anticipated freezes; avoid placing in drafty areas during winter.
Fertilizing
annually in early spring with balanced slow-release fertilizer
Apply fertilizer sparingly around the drip line; water thoroughly after fertilizing to prevent root burn; test soil before fertilizing to avoid unnecessary applications.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of suckers; softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer yield the best results.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings from healthy stems.
- Remove lower leaves and apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep warm and humid until roots develop.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing; division can be done in early spring or fall.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can also root in water initially before potting up.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates, especially for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks under ideal conditions; division will establish more quickly, often within a growing season.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, misting bottle, heat mat (optional).
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover or dome; check for root development after 3–4 weeks.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above outward-facing buds; remove crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, shape, and encourage better flowering; remove dead or damaged wood annually to maintain plant health.
Tools
Hand pruners, loppers (for larger branches), pruning saw (for thick stems), disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune during dormancy; remove dead or diseased wood first; make clean cuts to avoid tearing.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts; avoid repotting during dormancy or extreme weather.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter for container plants; for outdoor plants, ensure the root zone has adequate space to expand.
Method
Gently remove the plant from its container; trim any circling roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Not typically required for outdoor plants; container-grown specimens may need repotting every 2–3 years if root-bound.
Checklist
Choose a pot with drainage holes; use fresh, appropriate soil mix; handle roots gently; water well after repotting; place in a shaded area for a few days to recover.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; avoid wetting foliage; ensure proper drainage.
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; allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during the growing season; reduce frequency in winter to monthly or as needed based on soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or wilting in excessive heat; dieback or delayed bud break in cold stress; yellowing or stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause dieback of above-ground stems, though the root system is typically hardy; prolonged freezing can damage new growth.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter to insulate roots; protect young plants with burlap screens in exposed locations; avoid pruning in late fall to prevent frost damage.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering; heat stress may cause the plant to go dormant temporarily.
Solution: Provide supplemental water during heatwaves; use mulch to retain soil moisture; offer partial shade during the hottest part of the day if possible.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil pH and nutrient levels; apply fertilizer in early spring; water after application; avoid late-season fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, as Rhus typhina is not heavy feeder; discontinue fertilization in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly susceptible to the toxic effects of Rhus typhina, particularly due to their sensitivity to urushiol and other plant toxins. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal and systemic toxicity, requiring prompt veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Rhus typhina by dogs can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity due to the presence of urushiol and other toxic compounds. The plant poses a significant risk to canine health if consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicRhus typhina contains toxic compounds, including urushiol, which can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and systemic toxicity upon ingestion. The plant's effects are particularly pronounced in sensitive individuals, leading to significant physiological disruption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Staghorn Sumac toxic to humans?
A: No, Staghorn Sumac is non-toxic to humans.
Q: Does Staghorn Sumac attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is Staghorn Sumac drought tolerant?
A: Yes, it is highly drought tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Anacardiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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