About
Rhus potaninii, Potanin's sumac, is a rounded, deciduous tree to 12 m with dark-green, pinnate leaves of 7�11 leaflets to 35 cm long, turning vivid red in autumn. Hanging sprays of creamy-white flowers in summer are followed by clusters of spherical, hairy, red fruit. A handsome and ornamental tree for a sunny, well-drained garden.
About the genus
Rhus, the sumachs, are deciduous or evergreen shrubs and trees with simple, pinnate or palmately divided leaves that often colour brilliantly in autumn, inconspicuous yellow flowers in spring or summer and small, spherical, red fruits in dense clusters. Popular ornamental plants for sunny, well-drained positions.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height8-12 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden
Native toC & W China
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained soil in full sun to obtain best autumn colour
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus, coral spot and Verticillium wilt