Staghorn sumac
Also known as
Velvet sumac, Stag's-horn sumach, Tree sumac, Sumach
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
Get the appAbout Staghorn sumac
Rhus typhina, commonly called staghorn sumac, is a hardy, colony-forming deciduous shrub or small tree native to eastern North America. Reaching 10–30 ft (3–9 m), it is instantly recognizable by its velvety, antler-like young branches and large, pinnate leaves composed of many serrated leaflets. In summer, female plants bear dense, upright panicles of fuzzy crimson drupes that persist into winter and feed birds; the tart, vitamin C–rich fruits are used to make “sumac-ade.” Fall color is spectacular, ranging from golden orange to scarlet. Staghorn sumac thrives on poor, dry, and disturbed soils, stabilizing banks and adding architectural interest. It spreads by rhizomes to form thickets, excellent for naturalized plantings and wildlife cover but requiring management in small gardens. Tolerant of drought, salt, and urban conditions, it is a resilient choice for sunny sites. Not to be confused with poison sumac (Toxicodendron vernix), staghorn sumac lacks urushiol and is generally safe to handle, though sap may irritate sensitive skin.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Staghorn sumac
Water
Water deeply but infrequently. During the first growing season, supply about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water weekly, adjusting for rainfall, to establish a robust root system. Thereafter, staghorn sumac is drought tolerant and usually needs water only during extended dry spells; soak the root zone thoroughly, then allow soil to dry between waterings. Ensure excellent drainage—standing water promotes root problems. In containers, water when the top 1–2 inches of mix are dry, and never leave pots sitting in saucers.
Light
Provide full sun for best vigor, flowering, fruit set, and intense fall color—aim for 6–8+ hours of direct light daily. It tolerates light, open shade, especially in hotter climates, but expect looser habit and reduced coloration. Staghorn sumac thrives on bright, exposed sites, including slopes and roadsides, provided soils are well drained. In containers or tight courtyards, rotate plants seasonally to maintain even growth. Avoid deep shade, which encourages weak, leggy stems and sparse foliage.
Nutrients
Rhus typhina prefers lean soils and typically needs little to no fertilizer. For landscape plantings, incorporate compost into the planting hole and top-dress with 1–2 inches of compost each spring to replenish organic matter. Avoid high-nitrogen formulations that encourage lanky growth and suckering. If growth is weak in very poor soils, apply a light rate of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-10) in early spring, following label rates. Container-grown specimens benefit from a half-strength balanced liquid feed monthly from spring to midsummer only.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA Zones 3–8, Rhus typhina tolerates severe cold (to about −40°F/−40°C) and summer heat if soil drains well. It withstands wind, road salt, and urban pollution. Optimal growth occurs between 50–85°F (10–29°C), but established plants handle short hot, dry periods with minimal stress. Winter protection is unnecessary in range; mulching roots moderates temperature swings in exposed sites and containers. Avoid locations with chronic waterlogging or frost pockets that trap cold, still air in spring.
