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Description
Rhus Chinensis, also known as the Chinese sumac, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. It is native to China, Korea, and Japan and can grow up to 20 meters tall. The tree produces clusters of small yellow flowers in early summer and has red berries that attract birds during the fall season.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Rhus |
| Species | Rhus Chinensis |
Appearance
Rhus Chinensis has a broad, spreading canopy and a straight trunk that can grow up to 60 cm in diameter. Its leaves are pinnately compound, with 5-11 leaflets that are lance-shaped, serrated, and glossy green. During the fall season, the leaves turn a beautiful red or orange color. The tree produces small yellow flowers in clusters that are followed by bright red berries, which persist through the winter.
Care Guide
To care for Rhus Chinensis, make sure to water the tree regularly, especially during the hot summer months. The tree prefers well-drained, fertile soil and should be fertilized in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Rhus Chinensis requires full sun to thrive and can tolerate temperatures down to -15°C. It is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rhus Chinensis is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including aphids, scale insects, and powdery mildew. Aphids and scale insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, while powdery mildew can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Rhus Chinensis is native to China, Korea, and Japan and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including forests, rocky slopes, and riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Rhus Chinensis be grown in a container?
A: While Rhus Chinensis can be grown in a container, it will not reach its full potential in terms of size and fruit production.
Q: Is Rhus Chinensis toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Rhus Chinensis can be toxic to pets, especially dogs and cats. The tree contains urushiol, which can cause skin irritation and gastrointestinal distress if ingested.
Q: How often should Rhus Chinensis be fertilized?
A: Rhus Chinensis should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Rhus Chinensis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the red berries produced by Rhus Chinensis attract birds during the fall season.
Related Plants
- Rhus Typhina
- Rhus Glabra
- Rhus Aromatica
References
- “Rhus Chinensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286403.
- “Rhus Chinensis.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/chinese-sumac.
- “Rhus Chinensis.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/931/rhus-chinensis/details.
