Sumac Tree
Sumac Tree is a deciduous tree known for its brilliant red-orange fall color and its vertical red berries. It is an attractive, low-maintenance native tree. It is a great tree to have, particularly in a bare landscape that wants to develop a small thicket of Staghorn Sumac throughout the years, as it produces root suckers.
This tree has compound green leaves. Its newest branches are covered by an almost velvety material, giving it its name, like the velvety fuzz of deer antlers.
Sumac Tree Details
Family: Anacardiaceae
Light Requirement: Full Sun
Water Needs: Moist
Height: 20 – 35 ft.
Spread: 20 – 35 ft.
Growth Rate: Fast
Bloom Time: Spring
Flower Color: Yellow
Wildlife Value: Attracts butterflies, birds
Landscape Uses and Maintenance
This low-maintenance tree is often seen in disturbed areas such as roadsides or woodlands. These spots are ideal locations for planting your new tree. It is also great for creating a living privacy wall or hedge.
Rhus typhina plant is drought-tolerant after it is well established. Ensure that you water deeply when the plant is first established. This plant does not need fertilizer to grow, but can benefit from a balanced fertilizer to help its overall health. Bring the wildlife to your landscape! This tree will attract many pollinators and birds. Birds will love eating its dark red berries.
Noteworthy Characteristics
The Sumac Tree will attract many butterflies. This tree is a host for the Luna moth and the Spring Azure butterfly. This tree is ideal for supporting erosion control in areas that require additional soil stability.
Customer Reviews
The Staghorn Sumac I received was top-notch in condition. Strong roots, radiant foliage, and easy to plant—TN Nursery delivered beyond my expectations.
I was impressed by the quality of my Staghorn Sumac Tree. It was carefully packaged, full of life, and has become a striking addition to my garden.
The Staghorn Sumac from TN Nursery was outstanding. It arrived healthy, fresh, and ready to plant. It’s already showing impressive growth in just weeks.
The Staghorn Sumac I purchased was remarkable. It had vibrant leaves, flexible stems, and has settled quickly into my soil. TN Nursery delivered with excellence.
The Staghorn Sumac Tree arrived premium in every way. The root system was robust, the stems strong, and it transplanted without issue.
What did Native Americans use staghorn sumac for?
Native Americans used Staghorn Sumac for making natural dyes, medicines, and ceremonial purposes. Its leaves and bark were valued for their useful properties. The plant held cultural significance and was appreciated for its many natural benefits.
What are the uses of staghorn sumac?
Staghorn Sumac is often used in landscaping for its brilliant red fall color and unique texture. It helps control erosion and provides excellent wildlife habitat. Its striking looks make it an awesome option for naturalized or ornamental plantings.
What is the height of staghorn sumac?
Staghorn Sumac typically grows 15 to 25 feet tall, forming a beautiful, rounded shape. It spreads naturally, creating a bold, colorful display in the landscape. With little care, it thrives and adds striking height and texture to any garden.
Exposure
Staghorn Sumac thrives best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers at least 6 hours of natural sunlight daily for optimal growth and vibrant foliage. While it can handle some shade, it will be less vigorous and may produce fewer flowers.
Height at Maturity
Under 25 Feet
Usage
Flowering
Shipped As
Bare-root
Ships
UPS
Planting Zones
3-9
How To Grow
How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Trees
Bare root trees are shipped dormant without soil, making them lightweight, cost-effective, and easy to plant during the cool months of early spring or fall. To begin, soak the roots in a bucket of water for 4–6 hours before planting to rehydrate them. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil and ample space for the tree’s mature size.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the spread of the roots and deep enough to keep the root flare (where the roots begin to spread from the trunk) at or slightly above ground level. Create a small mound of soil in the center of the hole, spread the roots evenly over it, backfill with native soil, and gently tamp down to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting.
Keep the soil consistently moist (not soggy) during the first growing season, and apply mulch around the base—avoiding direct contact with the trunk—to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Stake the tree if necessary, and prune only to remove dead or damaged branches. With proper care, your bare root tree will establish quickly and grow strong for years to come.
