Sumac

Sumac Overview

Rhus is a genus containing approximately 35 deciduous trees, shrubs and climbing species with characteristic divided foliage arranged oppositely on stems, which displays attractive bright orange and red autumn colour and has toothed edges. Certain species are also grown for their showy fruits, which are considered ornamental. While others produce edible fruits that can be harvested for use as spice. Species in this genus are also known by the names Sumac, Sumaq or Sumach. Cultivars have been produced and these are well placed in a shrub border, woodland garden or these make good specimen trees which come alive with fiery colours in the autumn. Recent reclassification of plants has seen African species being grouped together in their own genus Searsia.