Species Chinese sumac
cream-green fruits with green leaves and brown branches

Chinese sumac

Rhus chinensis

Chinese sumac (Rhus chinensis) is a hardy, evergreen shrub native to China. In open areas, the shrub can reach 6 feet in height. The leaves are compound, with multiple leaflets, giving the plant an attractive and rich texture. The flowers of the Chinese Sumac come in shades of white and yellow, and it blooms most heavily in the spring and early summer months. In the fall, the Chinese sumac produces yellow to purple colored berries that are quite popular with birds. This shrub is often used to fill large areas, as it is quite fast growing and controllable.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Air Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 8

Flowers:

Creamy white Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Fruits:

red,orange Fruits Ready In Fall

Edible:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,red,yellow,purple

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Chinese sumac (Rhus chinensis) should be watered when the top inch or 2 of soil feels dry to the touch. This is typically every 1-2 weeks, although watering frequency can vary depending on the environment and season. Water until the soil is saturated, and allow the excess water to drain away. Avoid over-watering, as this can cause root rot in the plant.

sunlight

Chinese sumac is a sun-loving plant that prefers bright, full sun locations for optimal growth. In its natural range, Chinese sumac receives around 6-8 hours of sunlight each day during the growing season. During the warmer months, it can tolerate up to 10-12 hours of sunlight per day, although it should not be exposed to direct, intense afternoon sunlight. In cooler climates, Chinese sumac should be given at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

pruning

Chinese sumac (Rhus chinensis) should be pruned in late winter or early spring. Pruning for this species should be light and selective, focusing on removing damaged, diseased, or dead wood and weak growth. This will help to encourage an overall healthy form. Additionally, cutting back some of the longer stems to a higher bud can encourage bushier growth and more flowers.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Rhus chinensis typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Chinese sumac typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Rhus chinensis typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map