Rhus typhina

Description:

Staghorn sumac gets its common name from the look and feel of it's soft, furry new stems in spring which are similar the velvet antlers of male deer. It is a brilliant specimen tree for a small, sunny garden which we love because it adds a delicate feeling of height and alluring dappled shade. It's open, multi stemmed shape and lacey leaves that turn incredible neon shades of red and orange in autumn, look fabulous underplanted with bluey purple blooms such as late flowering Asters.  It is dioecious meaning that on female trees, deep red hairy seedheads appear in summer and last well into winter. It has a habit of suckering (spreading shoots underground) so not ideal next to areas of lawn, but these shoots can be cut off in a border or alternatively an underground barrier can be installed to stop the spread. It also makes a great small tree for a large planter.

Height & Spread:

4-8m x 4-8m in 10-20 years

Flowering colour:

Yellow green followed by red fruiting heads

Soil Moisture Requirements:

Moist but well-drained

Resistance to Pests and Diseases:

Excellent

Flowering Period:

Summer

Soil PH:

Acid, Neutral, Alkaline (Any)

Soil Type:

Deciduous:

Maintenance:

Scented:

Wildlife Friendly:

Plant Aspect: