What Climate Does Staghorn Sumac Grow In?

Location

• Staghorn sumac occurs naturally in temperate climates on the edges of woodlands, roads, railroads and streams. As a landscape shrub, staghorn sumac is suitable for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) plant hardiness zones 3 to 8. The shrub is remarkably cold tolerant, handling temperature drops as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit. Staghorn sumac will suffer in hot, humid conditions and cannot be grown in the tropics. The shrub will grow in full or partial sunlight, but not full shade.

Culture

• Adaptable and durable, staghorn sumac is tolerant of a wide range of soil types so long as they are well draining. The shrub is tolerant of windy conditions, as well as urban pollution, though it does poorly in salty maritime environments. The shrub suckers prolifically, forming a dense thicket unless suckers are removed. Water regularly throughout the growing season for best growth. Avoid overhead irrigation, as the shrub is prone to leaf spot, rust and powdery mildew.

Features

• Staghorn sumac is excellent in a wildlife oriented garden, attracting birds such as the European starling, ruffled grouse and the northern mockingbird with its berries and honey bees with its small spring blooming flowers. Its tolerance of strong winds makes it handy as a windbreak, and its deep root system makes it effective at erosion control. The tart berries can be used to make a pink lemonade-like drink, while the leaves can be used to make black ink.

Propagation

• Staghorn sumac may be propagated by fresh or stored seeds, pre-soaked for 24 hours in hot water and sown in a cold frame. Plants for a Future website recommends keeping seedlings in individual pots in a greenhouse for their first winter and then planting them out in their final position in the garden the following spring or summer after the last frost date. Staghorn sumac may also be propagated by half-ripe cuttings or root cuttings.