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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 3–9Type ShrubClimate Arid, Mediterranean, Subtropical
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — Desert Sumac (Rhus triolobata), a hardy, deciduous shrub, thrives in arid landscapes

Culture

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

Shape & size

Classification

Type
Shrub
Family
Anacardiaceae
Climate
Arid, Mediterranean, Subtropical

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Photos (51)

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) — It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade and is extremely drought-tolerant once established
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — providing a food source for birds and small mammals.<br><br>In the landscape
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — Its drought tolerance and adaptability make it an excellent choice for resilient, naturalistic designs; scientifically named
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — It boasts trilobed leaves and reaches up to 6 feet tall with an equal spread; with a spread of 4 to 6 feet
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) — This low-maintenance native is ideal for erosion control and wildlife habitats, enduring zones 4-9
Rhus trilobata
Rhus trilobata
Rhus trilobata
Rhus trilobata
Rhus trilobata
Rhus trilobata
Rhus trilobata
Rhus trilobata
Rhus trilobata
Rhus trilobata
Rhus trilobata
Rhus trilobata
Rhus trilobata
Rhus trilobata
Rhus trilobata
Rhus trilobata
Rhus trilobata
Photographs by 3 contributors

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