How to Grow Rhus Typhina - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Rhus typhina is a plant in the genus rhus. it is native to north america, where it is widespread in the eastern and central united states, and canada. it is also naturalized in parts of europe, asia, and north africa. the species is commonly known as staghorn sumac, velvet sumac, or simply sumac.

How to Grow Rhus Typhina - Plant Care & Tips

Also called

  • American staghorn sumac
  • Eastern staghorn sumac
  • Rock sumac
  • Staghorn sumac
  • Velvet sumac

Common Knowledge

  • Rhus typhina is a deciduous shrub or small tree in the genus Rhus.
  • native to eastern Asia, specifically in China, Korea, and Japan.
  • It is also known as the staghorn sumac, vine sumac, and Chinese sumac.
  • R. typhina can grow to a height of 6–12 m (20–39 ft).
  • The leaves are alternately arranged, pinnately compound, with 15–27 leaflets.
  • The flowers are borne in dense clusters, each flower small and greenish-yellow.
  • The fruit is a reddish-brown drupe, 3–5 mm (0.12–0.20 in) in diameter.
  • Rhus typhina is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens.
  • It is also used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments.
  • Rhus typhina is considered an invasive species in some parts of the world.

Growing Steps

  1. For rhus typhina, first step is to find a location that receives full sun and has well-drained soil.
  2. Prepare the planting area by removing all weeds and loosening the soil.
  3. Next, you will need to dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the plant’s root ball.
  4. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down lightly as you go.
  5. Water the plant well.
  6. Mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture.
  7. Rhus typhina will need to be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought.
  8. Fertilize the plant in early spring and mid-summer using a general-purpose fertilizer.
  9. Prune rhus typhina in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth.
  10. Rhus typhina is generally disease and pest free, but can occasionally be troubled by aphids or scale.

Soil Condition

About soil condition, Rhus typhina grows best in well-drained soils, but it is also tolerant of moderately dry to wet soils, as well as clay soils. It also does well in full sun to partial shade, although it may be more susceptible to leaf scorch in full sun.

Light requirement

Like the other plants, Rhus typhina needs sunlight to grow. This plant typically does best in full sun to partial sun, meaning it needs around six hours of sunlight each day. If it doesn't get enough sun, it may become leggy or sickly. Too much sun, on the other hand, can scorch the leaves.

The Temperature

The temperature condition that is best for growth of Rhus typhina is between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit. However, this plant is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures and can even survive in temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Humidity Level

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50% and above. This plant cannot tolerate extremely low humidity for long periods of time. If the humidity drops below 40% for more than a week, the plant will start to drop leaves.

The Fertilizer

The fertilizer, this family of plant species are used, helps to provide the plants with the essential nutrients required for proper growth. The roots of the plants in this family are typically very strong and fibrous, making it difficult for many other plants to compete with them for water and nutrients.

About light

Pruning is an important aspect of caring for rhus typhina plants. By pruning, you can encourage new growth and help the plant to maintain a healthy shape. When pruning, be sure to remove any dead or damaged branches. You can also use pruning to control the size and shape of the plant.

About Propagating

Propagation for rhus typhina is typically done through softwood or hardwood cuttings taken from the current season's growth. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, non-flowering stems and should be around 6-8 inches long. Cuttings should be taken in late spring or early summer. Once cuttings are taken, they should be immediately placed in water or a moist growing mix. Cuttings should be kept in a cool, shady location until they are ready to be planted.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate knowledge comes from studies done on cultivated plants. In general, these plants grow quite rapidly when young. Once they reach maturity, their growth rate slows considerably. This is typical for many woody shrubs.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are leaf spot, powdery mildew, canker, and dieback. Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the leaves. Canker is a bacterial disease that causes sunken, dark lesions on the bark. Dieback is a general term for any type of plant death.

Growing Tips

  • Remember to water your Rhus typhina regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
  • Be sure to fertilize your plant regularly to encourage healthy growth.
  • Rhus typhina can be susceptible to pests and diseases, so be sure to check your plant regularly and take care of any problems immediately.
  • This plant prefers full sun to partial shade, so be sure to give it plenty of bright light.
  • Rhus typhina can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, but it prefers well-drained, sandy soil.
  • This plant can grow quite large, so be sure to give it plenty of room to spread out.
  • Rhus typhina is a deciduous plant, so it will lose its leaves in the fall.
  • This plant is relatively easy to care for, but it does require some pruning to keep it looking its best.
  • Rhus typhina

Alternative Plants

  • Rhus typhina 'Ultramarine'
  • Rhus typhina 'Dissecta'
  • Rhus typhina 'Tiger Eyes'
  • Rhus typhina 'Laciniata'
  • Rhus typhina 'Fiery Tamerlane'
  • Rhus typhina 'Dulcet'
  • Rhus typhina 'Bailtiger'
  • Rhus typhina 'Chamissoi'
  • Rhus typhina 'Tiger Splendor'
  • Rhus typhina 'Autumn Blaze'

Source:
Rhus typhina - UDBG
Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina)-Hort Answers - University of …
Trees on the Yale Nature Walk | Yale Nature Walk

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