Photo of Rhus chinensis flower, foliage by Kenpei

Photo by Kenpei

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Rhus chinensis

Also Known As

  • Rhus javanica
  • Rhus semialata
  • Chinese Gall
  • Chinese Sumac
  • Galla Chinensis
  • Nutgall Tree

Plant type

tree

size

  • H: 15'-20'
  • W: 15'-20'

planting zones

  • 8a-10b

More Options

Rhus chinensis plant details

Rhus chinensis is a broadleaf deciduous tree with green foliage. In summer white flowers emerge followed by orange fruit. Grows well with sun and regular - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in acidic, alkaline, average, clay, lean and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant, humidity tolerant, pollution tolerant and seaside / salt tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Rhus chinensis

Plant type: tree
Plant family: anacardiaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 15 FT - 20 FT - wide, 15 FT - 20 FT - tall
Flowers: white blooms in summer
Uses: hedge, street tree

GROWING CONDITIONS for Rhus chinensis

USDA Zones: 8a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: regular - low
Resistant to: deer, heat, humidity, pollution and seaside / salt
Soil needs: acidic, alkaline, average, clay, lean and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Showy sprays of creamy-white late summer flowers and large compound leaves with winged stalks and bright autumn colors distinguish this small spreading tree (to 20') up and down the river valleys of Sichuan. S/M
Many varieties of sumac are a mainstay for summer nectar and the Chinese Sumac is no exception. The flowering season arrives in late August when other varieties have long gone to seed. Large flower heads up to 12" or more in length of yellowish-white blooms cast their spell on pollinators of all kinds. Grown as a landscape plant, Chinese Sumac grows into a small tree reaching a mature height of 25' tall. Its pinnate-shaped leaves add a fall foliage dimension and turn orangey/red while the mature fruit with the same color tones hangs on the tree until October. Poor, dry, soil conditions are not a problem for this tenacious plant and if left on its own, it will form a stand of small trees from root suckers.

Gardening facts about Rhus chinensis plant

How to Grow Rhus chinensis

  • Sun Exposure

    • sun
  • Water Needs

    • regular - drought tolerant
  • Soil Needs

    • clay
    • acidic
    • alkaline
    • adaptable
    • average
    • lean
    • well-drained
  • Special Situation

    • heat tolerant
    • humidity tolerant
    • pollution tolerant
    • seaside / salt tolerant

Features

  • Foliage Color

    • green
  • Flower Color

    • white
  • Wildlife

    • deer resistant
  • Fruit

    • orange
  • Flower Season

    • summer
  • Foliage Season

    • deciduous
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