Rhus Typhina - Staghorn Sumac Seedlings

Rhus Typhina Staghorn Sumac Seedlings

Rhus Typhina Staghorn Sumac seedlings is a native small tree or large shrub that is outstanding for wildlife, stabilizes soil, establishes quickly on difficult sites, and is also a four-season interest powerhouse. This is the tree and  a jack of all trades that immediately comes to
mind.

Staghorn Sumac is Very Vibrant in Native Landscaping

Staghorn sumac seedlings have so many uses and applications. These fast-growing native
seedlings are wonderful for colonizing large areas in need of stabilization. Staghorn sumac
seedlings will grow into specimens around 20’ tall and equally wide and will become an
interesting conversation piece for years to come. The multi-stemmed form has young
shoots covered with thick, velvety hairs.

 Dark green leaves are massive—almost resembling palm fronds in shape and size. These leaves transform into transcendent shades of fiery red, orange, and gold come fall, and from a distance, a stand of staghorn sumacs can appear as a fire upon the land. The humble flowers have high pollinator value.

Fruits of the Rhus Typhina Staghorn Sumac

But transform into enormous clusters of bright red fruits tufted with delicate hairs when
ripe. Not only are these fruits highly prized by wildlife, but they also have a long history of
human use, traditionally soaked in water to make a tart and tasty drink called sumac-ade.
Importantly, staghorn sumac is not the same plant as poison sumac, and its fruits have a
long history of culinary use.

Ecological and restoration opportunities abound when choosing Rhus typhina seedlings

Dozens of beneficial insect species utilize staghorn sumac for nectar, food, or shelter, and
the fruits provide an important food source for native songbirds, especially through winter
when food may be scarce. Staghorn sumacs hold onto their fruits, often into spring, adding
winter-season interest for landowners. Staghorn sumac seedlings may be planted spaced
apart because they colonize and spread through suckering, allowing large areas to fill in
quickly. Though their preference is for well-drained conditions, staghorn sumac seedlings
do well on difficult sites that may be dry, rocky, shallow, calcareous, or prone to erosion.

Rhus Typhina Seedlings Help with Soil Erosion

Their spreading root systems can help stabilize soil and reduce erosion over time.
Staghorn sumac seedlings hold stiff competition from other native understory species
when it comes to ecological function plus the ability to colonize fast. From the velvety
brown branches that gave the staghorn sumac its name, to the fiery autumn foliage and
plumes of red fruits that dazzle, staghorn sumac seedlings hold the title of becoming the
flamboyant colonizers of the North American landscape.