Chinese Sumac

Rhus chinensis

Native to:
Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, Hainan, India, Japan, Korea, Laos, Myanmar, Nansei-shoto, Nepal, Pakistan, Sumatera, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Anacardiaceae
Genus:
Rhus
Species:
Rhus chinensis
USDA Symbol:
RHCH9

Growth Characteristics

Height:
800 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Medium
Bloom Months:
aug,sep
Bloom Colors:
white, cream
Landscaping Shrub:
Yes

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:
★★★★☆ Butterfly & moth species supported by this genus (NWF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
birds, bees
Deer Resistant:
Yes
Fall Color:
red, orange, yellow
Fire Ecology:
Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire
Fire Notes:
Resprouts vigorously from root crown after fire or cutting, typical of Rhus genus.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
Prefers sunny locations with good air circulation

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
Germination Time:
14–30 days
Notes:
Seeds germinate best after cold stratification; may also respond to scarification for improved rates.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI