November Shrub of the Month-Staghorn Sumac

We explore another sumac this month-Rhus typhina, or staghorn sumac. Like the other sumacs, staghorn sumac forms colonies frequently found along roadsides or embankments.

Unlike its cousin aromatic sumac, staghorn sumac can grow 15′- 25′ high, has long, compound pinnate leaves, and very pubescent stems like young, velvety deer antlers-hence the name-staghorn sumac. The dioecious flowers in early summer give way to showy, bright red fruits in fall that usually persist all winter. Even showier than the fruit is the brilliant red fall color. 

Full sun to part shade is best for staghorn sumac. It also loves neglect, poor, or dry soils with plenty of space to sprawl, making it excellent for erosion control or mass plantings in large borders. 

Common in the trade are the cut-leaf sumacs like ‘Tiger Eyes’ or ‘Dissecta.’ ‘Tiger Eyes’ has chartreuse-colored foliage and a more dwarf, non-aggressive habit than the straight species. 

What’s great about this plant?

-Has excellent fall color.

-Showy fruit.

-Typically, low-maintenance.

-Tolerates poor soil.

-Great for erosion control.

-It’s native and great for large-scale natural areas where it can do its ‘thing’!

What’s not so great?

-Hard to find the straight native species in the trade.

-Like other sumacs, Rhus glabra and any cultivars spread by underground runners. New stems can surface 20′ away from the mother plant and are pointless to try and control in a small garden setting. Growing it in large containers could be a short-term way to add this plant to your smaller landscape.

Words and photos by Jo Batzer

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