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Skunkbush Sumac

Rhus trilobata

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Overview

Desert Sumac (Rhus triolobata), a hardy, deciduous shrub, thrives in arid landscapes. It boasts trilobed leaves and reaches up to 6 feet tall with an equal spread. Springtime yellow flowers give way to reddish-orange berry clusters, providing vivid seasonal interest. This low-maintenance native is ideal for erosion control and wildlife habitats, enduring zones 4-9. Its drought tolerance and adaptability make it an excellent choice for resilient, naturalistic designs.

Sun FullWater Extra in Summer, Very LowZones 3–9Climate Arid, Mediterranean, Subtropical

Culture

Sun
Full
Water
Extra in Summer, Very Low
USDA zones
3–9

Shape & size

Classification

Family
Anacardiaceae
Climate
Arid, Mediterranean, Subtropical

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Photos (31)

Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — Desert Sumac (Rhus triolobata), a hardy, deciduous shrub, thrives in arid landscapes
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — It boasts trilobed leaves and reaches up to 6 feet tall with an equal spread
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — Springtime yellow flowers give way to reddish-orange berry clusters, providing vivid seasonal interest
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — This low-maintenance native is ideal for erosion control and wildlife habitats, enduring zones 4-9
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — Its drought tolerance and adaptability make it an excellent choice for resilient, naturalistic designs
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — scientifically named Rhus triolobata
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — is a resilient and versatile deciduous shrub
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — native to the arid regions of North America
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — It\'s an ideal addition to any landscape seeking a touch of natural beauty with minimal upkeep
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — Mature specimens typically reach a height of 3 to 8 feet
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — with a spread of 4 to 6 feet
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — creating a dense and layered appearance
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — which have three lobed leaflets
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — The blooms are small and yellow
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — appearing in clusters in spring and transforming into red berries by late summer
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — These berries are a treat for wildlife
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — providing a food source for birds and small mammals.<br><br>In the landscape
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade and is extremely drought-tolerant once established
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — requiring minimal supplemental watering
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — Adapted to thrive in USDA zones 3 through 8
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — Desert Sumac is not picky about soil conditions
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — though well-drained soils are optimal
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — and consider the value it offers for native wildlife when planning your garden layout
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — yellow flowers in the garden

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