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Description
Rhus Copallina, also known as Winged Sumac or Shining Sumac, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. This plant is native to North America, and it can be found in the eastern and central regions of the United States, from Maine to Texas.The shrub can grow up to 20 feet tall and has an equal spread. It produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in late spring and early summer, followed by red fruit clusters that ripen in late summer and early fall. The leaves are compound and pinnate, and they are green during the growing season, turning to shades of red, orange, and yellow in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Rhus |
| Species | Copallina |
Appearance
Rhus Copallina has a unique appearance, with its winged branches and compound leaves. The leaves are typically 8-12 inches long and have 11-31 leaflets that are 2-4 inches long. The leaflets have serrated edges and are dark green in color, turning to shades of red, orange, and yellow in the fall.The shrub produces dense clusters of greenish-yellow flowers in late spring and early summer, which are followed by red fruit clusters that ripen in late summer and early fall. The fruit is small and round, about 1/8 inch in diameter, and is covered in small hairs.
Care Guide
Rhus Copallina is a hardy shrub that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require much water. Water it only when the soil is dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: This plant can grow in a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil.- Sunlight: Rhus Copallina prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rhus Copallina is generally a hardy shrub that is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:- Scale insects: These insects can suck the sap from the leaves and cause them to turn yellow and drop.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves and can eventually lead to leaf drop.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves.
Habitat
Rhus Copallina is native to North America and can be found in the eastern and central regions of the United States, from Maine to Texas. It typically grows in dry, rocky areas, and can be found in fields, along roadsides, and in open woods.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Rhus Copallina poisonous?
A: Yes, Rhus Copallina is toxic to humans and animals. It contains urushiol, the same compound found in poison ivy, which can cause a rash and other allergic reactions.Q: Can Rhus Copallina be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Rhus Copallina can be grown in containers, but it will require frequent watering and fertilization.Q: Does Rhus Copallina attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Rhus Copallina is a popular food source for birds and small mammals.Q: How often should Rhus Copallina be pruned?
A: Rhus Copallina does not require much pruning, but you can prune it in the late winter or early spring to shape it or remove any dead or damaged branches.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Rhus Copallina:- Rhus Aromatica- Rhus Glabra- Rhus Typhina- Rhus Vernix
References
– “Rhus Copallina,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed September 8, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c777.- “Winged Sumac,” North Carolina State University Extension, accessed September 8, 2021, https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/rhus-copallina/.
