Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Anacardiaceae

Genus:

Rhus

Species:

Rhus ovata

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Shrub , Tree

Height:

12-20 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun, Part Shade

Bloom Months:

mar, apr, may

Bloom Colors:

White, Pink

Evergreen Shrub:

Yes

Landscaping Shrub:

Yes

Native Range

United States: Arizona, California

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:

★★☆☆☆ Based on number of butterfly and moth species using this genus as host plant (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rocky, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

6.0 - 8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

thrives in arid, rocky hillsides

Germination Information