RHUS TYPHINA / STAGHORN SUMAC

RHUS TYPHINA / STAGHORN SUMAC

A Striking Native Shrub or Small Tree with Bold Form and Vibrant Fall Color

Rhus typhina, commonly known as Staghorn Sumac, is a native deciduous shrub or small tree admired for its upright, multi-stemmed habit, velvety stems, and spectacular red fall foliage. Thriving in full sun with well-drained soils, Staghorn Sumac is highly adaptable and ideal for naturalized landscapes, erosion control, and wildlife gardens. Its unique texture, color, and hardiness make it a standout native plant.

Why Choose Staghorn Sumac?

Bold, Upright Form: Multi-stemmed habit with dramatic architectural presence.
Vibrant Fall Color: Brilliant red to orange foliage in autumn.
Wildlife Friendly: Produces dense clusters of red berries that feed birds and small mammals.
Low Maintenance & Hardy: Tolerates poor soils and drought once established.

Key Features:

Foliage Color: Medium green leaves turning bright red to orange in fall.
Flower Color: Small greenish-yellow flowers in early summer.
Fruit: Dense clusters of red drupes persisting into winter.
Height and Spread: Typically grows 10–25 feet tall and 15–25 feet wide.
Hardiness: Hardy to USDA Zones 3–8.
Sunlight: Prefers full sun.
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soils; tolerates poor, rocky, or sandy conditions.

Specifications:

Plant Size: 10–25 feet tall, 15–25 feet wide.
Growth Habit: Upright, multi-stemmed deciduous shrub or small tree.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 3–8.
Flowering/Fruiting: Early summer flowers; persistent red berries in fall and winter.
Fall Interest: Brilliant red to orange foliage with ornamental berries.

Ideal Uses:

Naturalized Landscapes & Restoration: Excellent for informal, native plantings.
Erosion Control: Dense root systems stabilize slopes and banks.
Wildlife Gardens: Berries provide winter food for birds and small mammals.
Specimen Plantings: Bold form and striking fall color make it a focal point.

Staghorn Sumac is a versatile and visually dramatic native plant. Its bold form, vibrant fall color, and wildlife benefits make it an excellent choice for naturalized landscapes, erosion control, and wildlife-friendly gardens.