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Rhus typhina

stag's horn sumach

R. typhina is a large suckering deciduous shrub to 6m, the red-hairy stems with large pinnate leaves turning red and orange in autumn. Dioecious, with yellow-green flower clusters, followed on female plants by dense crimson fruiting heads

Other common names
green-flowered sumach
staghorn sumac
see morevelvet sumac
vinegar tree
Virginian sumach
Synonyms
Rhus hirta
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Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
4–8 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green Yellow Green
Autumn Orange Red Red
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Anacardiaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Suckering
Genus

Rhus can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs or trees with simple, pinnate or palmately-divided leaves often colouring brilliantly in autumn, and inconspicuous yellow flowers in spring or summer, followed by small, spherical red fruits in dense clusters

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Eastern North America

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist but well-drained soil in full sun to obtain best autumn colour. Suckering in habit and has the potential to become a nuisance

Propagation

Propagate by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Pruning group 7; sucker removal may be necessary, in winter

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus, coral spot and Verticillium wilt

Get involved

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