Rhus microphylla
Littleleaf or Desert Sumac
Description
Deciduous shrub forms densely branched mound to 6' x 8'. Arching branches end in spine. Birds appreciate small red berries late summer. Compound deep green 5-9 leaflets. Red fall color. Extremely drought, soil, & heat tolerant. Spikes of tiny red flowers in early summer. Makes a dark beautiful evergreen shrub. Occurs in washes and on hillsides 2-6000' across Southwest. Needs good drainage. Fruit ornamental and wildlife food source.
Plant Type
Tree, Shrub
Height Range
6-12'
Flower Color
Red
Flower Season
Winter
Leaf Color
Green, Dark Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
Black, Red
Fruit Season
Spring, Summer
Leaf Season
Deciduous
Sun
Full
Water
Very Low, Low
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular
Soil Condition
Average, Poor, Well-drained
Soil pH
Neutral, Basic
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
n/a
Accenting Features
Fall Color, Silhouette, Unusual Shape
Seasonal Interest
Spring
Location Uses
Shrub Border, Parking Strip, Parking Lot, Raised Planter, With Rocks
Special Uses
Erosion Control, Hedge, Screen, Mass Planting, Naturalizing
Attracts Wildlife
Butterflies
Water Saving Tip:
Water-wise plants can be beautiful as well as practical.
Ask at your local nursery for the types of plants that have minimal watering needs.