Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Anacardiaceae

Genus:

Rhus

Species:

Rhus kearneyi

USDA Symbol:

RHKE

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Shrub , Tree

Height:

300 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun,Part Shade

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

mar,apr,may

Bloom Colors:

yellow

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:

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

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, small mammals

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Fall Color:

red, orange

Fire Ecology:

Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire

Fire Notes:

Resprouts from root crown after fire; fire may enhance seed germination.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rocky, well-drained desert soil

pH:

6.0 - 8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to arid regions, prefers rocky slopes

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days

Scarification:

Seed coat scarification required before sowing

Germination Time:

30–90 days

Notes:

Seeds require scarification (e.g., sulfuric acid or hot water) followed by cold stratification for 30-60 days.