Lemonade sumac
Rhus integrifolia · Anacardiaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around lemonade sumac and prepare for winter.
ID card
- English name
- Lentisk shrub or Hollyleaf Redberry
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- Spring (April-May)
- Mature size
- 2 to 4 m in height, compact shrubby form
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Zones 9-11 (Mediterranean, semi-arid climates)
- Origin
- California and Baja California (United States, Mexico)
- Soil type
- Well-drained, tolerates poor and rocky soils
Care
Sunlight
Place Rhus integrifolia in full sun for vigorous growth and generous flowering. It tolerates partial shade but prefers 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. This shrub adapts well to wind-exposed and hot locations.
Watering
Water regularly during the first year after planting to encourage root establishment. Once established, Rhus integrifolia is very drought-resistant and only needs watering during prolonged dry periods. In a Mediterranean climate, monthly watering in summer is generally sufficient.
Soil Preparation
Prepare well-drained, light soil that is poor to moderately fertile. Add sand or gravel if the ground is heavy or clayey, as this shrub dislikes winter moisture excess. A neutral to slightly acidic pH is ideal.
Pruning and Shaping
Perform light pruning after flowering to maintain a compact, well-branched form. Remove dead or damaged branches as soon as they appear. Avoid drastic cutting, which could weaken the shrub.
Nutrition
Rhus integrifolia requires minimal fertilizing thanks to its ability to thrive on poor soils. A single annual application of balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient; in very depleted soil, add another dose in June.
Diseases and Pests
Highly resistant to pests and diseases in its native climate. Check winter drainage, as stagnant moisture can cause root rot. Occasionally inspect foliage to detect any rare pest damage.
Did you know?
Rhus integrifolia was a precious shrub for indigenous peoples of California, who used its red, fleshy fruits for centuries. Its drupes contain an aromatic resin reminiscent of Sicilian sumac and were traditionally used to prepare a tangy, invigorating beverage—a distant ancestor of modern acidic condiments.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Mastic treePistacia lentiscus
- Staghorn sumacRhus typhina
- Smoke treeCotinus coggygria
- Peruvian peppertreeSchinus molle
- Chinese pistachePistacia chinensis
- PistachioPistacia vera
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.