About
A large, suckering shrub or small tree with stiff branches, velvety when young. The large, elegant leaves with numerous leaflets open salmon pink, turning yellow-green in summer, then vivid shades of red, orange and yellow in autumn.
About the genus
Rhus can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs or trees with simple, pinnate or palmately-divided leaves often colouring brilliantly in autumn, and inconspicuous yellow flowers in spring or summer, followed by small, spherical red fruits in dense clusters
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectWest-facing, East-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitSuckering
FoliageDeciduous
Height4-8 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained soil in full sun to obtain best autumn colour. Suckering in habit and has the potential to become a nuisance
PruningPruning group 7; sucker removal may be necessary, in winter
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus, coral spot and Verticillium wilt