Staghorn Sumac
Deciduous shrub or small tree reaching 3-6 m tall. Features large, pinnately compound leaves turning brilliant red in fall. Produces dense, upright clusters of red berries persisting into winter. Tolerates poor soils and full sun. Spreads by suckers to form colonies. Important winter food source for birds. Suitable for naturalized areas, erosion control, and wildlife gardens. Can be aggressive in ideal conditions.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Green to Red
Bloom Time: Early-Summer
Sun Requirements: Sun to Part-Shade
Moisture: Dry to Moist-Drained
Phenology: Compound leaves emerge late May. Yellow-green flower clusters appear June-July. Red fruit clusters develop August, persisting through winter. Brilliant orange-red fall color develops September.
Wildlife Value: Fruits persist through winter, eaten by >35 bird species; dense cover for wildlife; flowers attract native bees; important winter food source
Habit Over Time: Spreads aggressively through root suckers to form extensive colonies. New stems emerge both close to and at considerable distance from the parent plant. While the architectural form of individual stems is striking, this plant needs space to express its natural growth pattern. Best used where its spreading nature can be contained or is desirable.
Height: Tall (15-25 feet)