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Description
Rhus Trilobata, commonly known as three-leaf sumac, is a deciduous shrub native to North America. It is characterized by its trifoliate leaves, which turn a vibrant red or orange in the fall, and its small yellow flowers that bloom in the summer. The plant also produces red berries that are a favorite food source for birds and other wildlife.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Rhus |
Appearance
The three-leaf sumac can grow up to 3-6 feet tall and wide, and has a rounded shape. Its leaves are trifoliate, meaning they are composed of three leaflets, and are typically 1-3 inches long. The leaflets are dark green in color, turning red or orange in the fall. The plant produces small yellow flowers in the summer, which are followed by red berries that remain on the plant throughout the winter. The bark of the plant is smooth and grayish-brown in color.
Care Guide
Three-leaf sumac is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for growing and maintaining your Rhus Trilobata:
- Water: Three-leaf sumac is drought-tolerant and can withstand dry conditions, but it will benefit from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells.
- Fertilization: This plant does not require regular fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring if desired.
- Soil: Three-leaf sumac prefers well-drained soil, but can tolerate a range of soil types including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a range of light conditions.
- Hardiness Zones: Three-leaf sumac is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Three-leaf sumac is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to scale insects and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The plant can also be affected by leaf spot, which is a fungal disease that can be treated with a fungicide. Other potential diseases include crown gall and powdery mildew.
Habitat
Three-leaf sumac is native to North America and can be found growing in a variety of habitats including prairies, woodlands, and rocky slopes. It is commonly used in landscaping as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and hardiness.
Question and Answer
Q: Is three-leaf sumac poisonous?
A: No, three-leaf sumac is not poisonous, but it can cause skin irritation in some people.
Q: Can three-leaf sumac be grown in a container?
A: Yes, three-leaf sumac can be grown in a container, but it may not reach its full potential size.
Q: When is the best time to prune three-leaf sumac?
A: Three-leaf sumac can be pruned in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: Can three-leaf sumac be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, three-leaf sumac can be propagated from softwood or hardwood cuttings taken in the summer or fall.
Related Plants
- Rhus Glabra (Smooth Sumac)
- Rhus Aromatica (Fragrant Sumac)
- Rhus Typhina (Staghorn Sumac)
- Rhus Copallinum (Winged Sumac)
References
- “Rhus Trilobata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e915. Accessed 27 Sept. 2021.
- “Three-Leaf Sumac.” Colorado State University Extension, extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/three-leaf-sumac-7-415. Accessed 27 Sept. 2021.
- “Rhus Trilobata.” University of Connecticut Plant Database, www.hort.uconn.edu/plants/detail.php?pid=436. Accessed 27 Sept. 2021.
