Plant types

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Photo by Michael Wolf

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Rhus potaninii

Also Known As

Chinese Varnish Tree
Potanin Sumac
Potanin's Lacquer Tree

Plant type

tree

size

H: 30'
W: 25'

planting zones

5a-9b

Rhus potaninii plant details

Rhus potaninii is a broadleaf deciduous tree with green foliage. In spring and summer white flowers emerge followed by red fruit. Attracts birds. Grows well with sun and even moisture - regular water. Does well in acidic, alkaline, average, clay and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant, humidity tolerant and pollution tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Rhus potaninii

Plant type: tree
Plant family: anacardiaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 25 FT wide, 30 FT tall
Flowers: white blooms in spring and summer
Uses: fall color

GROWING CONDITIONS for Rhus potaninii

USDA Zones: 5a - 9b
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: even moisture - regular
Resistant to: deer and rabbit, heat, humidity and pollution
Soil needs: acidic, alkaline, average, clay and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Its large (to 16") compound leaves and rich fall colors earned this small (to 30' wild) rounded tree an Award of Merit; at home it also has weeping clusters (to 8") of white flowers and later peppercorn-sized red fruit. S/M