Also known as Chinese Gall · Nutgal Sumac · Nutgall
Chinese Sumac (Rhus chinensis) is a deciduous shrub or small tree known for its attractive pinnate leaves that turn vibrant red in autumn. It's native to East Asia.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun for best growth and flowering. Can tolerate partial shade, but may become less dense and flower less profusely.
Moderate to Low (Drought Tolerant)
50% intensity
Water regularly until established. Mature plants require minimal watering, only during extended dry periods. Ensure good drainage.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Hardy
50% intensity
Tolerates a broad range of temperatures, hardy in USDA zones 4-9. Protect young plants from extreme frost.
Low
25% intensity
Does not require heavy feeding. A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient if soil is poor.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Chinese Sumac regularly during its establishment phase. Once mature, it becomes quite drought-tolerant, requiring watering only during prolonged dry spells.
Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Aim for consistently moist soil in the first year.
Prune Rhus chinensis in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pruning can also be done to shape the plant, control its size, or encourage denser growth.
Avoid heavy pruning in summer as it can stress the plant.
Chinese Sumac can be propagated from seeds, which often require stratification. Alternatively, softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings can be taken in late spring or summer and treated with rooting hormone.
Division of suckers in early spring is also an effective method for asexual propagation.
Repotting is rarely necessary for mature Chinese Sumac as it is typically planted directly in the ground. If grown in a container, repot every 2-3 years in early spring into a slightly larger pot.
Use a well-draining potting mix, and prune roots moderately if they are circling the pot.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Chinese Sumac (Rhus chinensis)
Where Chinese Sumac (Rhus chinensis) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Rhus |
| Species | Rhus chinensis |
Similar in genus Rhus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
