Staghorn Sumac

Staghorn sumac grows up to 15’ tall. It’s large, red, fuzzy seed structures may be 10” long. The leaves are alternate and contain 11-31 toothed leaflets. The stems are yellow-brown and fuzzy and resemble the velvet covering developing deer antlers. This shrub typically reproduces through root suckers and is most often found in stands that may be relatively small or covering fairly large areas. The staghorn sumac is shade intolerant so is most often found along the edges of forests, in forest openings, encroaching on grasslands and fields, and along roadsides. It is most noticeable in late summer and autumn when its green leaves turn brilliant red accented in orange and yellow. Fascinating Facts Sumac provides a steady supply of food for wildlife throughout the fall, winter, and spring as the seedheads remain on the plant from autumn through late spring. The bark is rich in tannins used in leather production (tanning). It is sometimes used as an ornamental plant in home landscaping where it provides an interesting change of texture and color, especially in autumn.

Prairie Home | Forest Home     Staghorn Sumac Rhus typhina Find It Coon Rapids Regional Park Tell Us Have you found this plant at other locations within the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area (map)? If so, let us know the location by e-mail. Put the word "Plant" in the subject line.