Southern Utah University

Table of Contents

Locations

  1. Campus Features

    1. Tree Tour

      1. Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina)

        Latin Name - Rhus typhina
        Height - 15-25 feet
        Spread - 15-25 feet
        Growth Rate - Fast
        USDA Zone - 4 to 9
        Drought Tolerance - High

        Disparaged by some horticulturists and landscape architects, this large shrub/small tree features luxuriant green foliage that flames with autumn brilliance. Staghorn sumac's suckering tendencies, so problematic in moist climates of the eastern United States, may be put to good use in the dry west. Useful for covering slopes and hillsides, a restricted water diet also minimizes its exuberance and qualifies it for many waterwise landscape possibilities. Staghorn sumac is so called because fuzzy young branches recall the antler velvet of deer.