Contents
Description
Rhus Standleyi is a species of flowering plant in the Anacardiaceae family native to Mexico. It is one of the most unique and striking members of the Rhus genus, and is commonly known as Standley’s sumac. This plant is a small deciduous shrub that typically grows up to 1.5 meters tall. It has compound leaves with 11-23 leaflets that are finely toothed and glossy green in color. In the fall, the leaves turn a brilliant shade of red, adding to the plant’s visual appeal.
Taxonomy
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Rhus |
Appearance
Rhus Standleyi is a small deciduous shrub that typically grows up to 1.5 meters tall. It has compound leaves with 11-23 leaflets that are finely toothed and glossy green in color. In the fall, the leaves turn a brilliant shade of red, adding to the plant’s visual appeal. The plant also produces small yellow-green flowers in the spring that are followed by red berries in the summer. The berries are attractive to birds and other wildlife.
Care Guide
Rhus Standleyi is a relatively low-maintenance plant. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant once established, but benefits from occasional watering during dry spells. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in the spring, and avoid over-fertilizing as this can lead to excessive growth and reduced flowering. This plant is hardy to USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rhus Standleyi is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects and spider mites, which can be treated with an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Powdery mildew can also be a problem, particularly in humid conditions. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure adequate air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Rhus Standleyi is native to Mexico, where it grows in rocky, dry habitats at elevations of up to 2,000 meters. It is typically found in open woodlands, chaparral, and along rocky slopes.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is Rhus Standleyi toxic to pets?
A: Rhus Standleyi is not known to be toxic to pets, but it is always best to keep pets away from any plant that they may ingest.
Q: How often should I water Rhus Standleyi?
A: Rhus Standleyi is drought-tolerant once established, but benefits from occasional watering during dry spells. Water deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the fall and winter.
Q: Can Rhus Standleyi be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Rhus Standleyi can be grown in a container, but it may not thrive as well as it would in the ground. Use a well-draining soil mix and ensure the container has drainage holes.
Q: Does Rhus Standleyi require pruning?
A: Rhus Standleyi does not require pruning, but can be pruned to maintain a desired shape or size. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Rhus genus include:
- Rhus aromatica (Fragrant sumac)
- Rhus copallinum (Winged sumac)
- Rhus glabra (Smooth sumac)
- Rhus typhina (Staghorn sumac)
References
- “Rhus standleyi.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 14 July 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d585>.
- “Rhus standleyi.” Texas Native Plants Database. Accessed 14 July 2021. <https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=RUST4>.
- “Rhus standleyi.” PlantFiles. Accessed 14 July 2021. <https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/201465/>.
