Elm-Leaved Sumach
Rhus coriariafam. Anacardiaceae
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Pl. 6DCB — Rhus coriaria
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IOverview
Overview
Elm-Leaved Sumach (Rhus coriaria) is a tree native to regions including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, and various islands in the Mediterranean such as Cyprus and the Canary Islands. Known for its edible fruit, this plant thrives in light, medium, and heavy soils with a pH between 6.5 and 7. It prefers dry to moist conditions and can tolerate hardiness zones 8-11. The tree reaches a height of about 3 meters and is distinguished by its leaves that resemble those of elms, hence the common name. Its fruit is edible, making it a valuable resource in some areas.
Quick answers
What is Elm-Leaved Sumach?
Elm-Leaved Sumach (Rhus coriaria) is a tree native to regions including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, and various islands in the Mediterranean such as Cyprus and the Canary Islands. Known for its edible fruit, this plant thrives in light, medium, and heavy soils with a pH between 6.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Elm-Leaved Sumach thrives in light to medium soil types and prefers a pH between 6.5 and 7. It is drought-tolerant but also grows well in moist conditions. This tree can handle dry environments, making it suitable for areas with varying moisture levels. Propagate through seeds or cuttings. The plant is hardy in temperate regions, zones 8-11. Ensure the planting site receives adequate sunlight and water regularly to maintain soil moisture, especially during dry periods. Fruit is edible but not commonly used as a food source.
Light
8/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Habit
Tree
Mature size
3.0 m tall
Soil pH
6.5–7
For first-time growers
How to grow Elm-Leaved Sumach for the first time
7steps
Start with planting Elm-Leaved Sumach in a sunny spot, and follow these simple steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Elm-Leaved Sumach sapling, well-draining soil, and a garden trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or fall when the weather is cooler and more stable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 6.5 and 7, and loosen it to about 30 cm deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling into a hole slightly larger than its root ball, backfill with soil, and water thoroughly.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Water once or twice a week depending on weather conditions.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly during dry spells, mulch to retain moisture, and prune in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the tree annually in late winter to remove dead branches and encourage new growth.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: Oil, Condiment
Other uses:DyeMordantoilTannin
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe10 regions
native (10)AlbaniaBulgariaCyprusFranceGreeceItalyPortugalRussiaSpainUkraine
Asia6 regions
native (6)IranIraqPalestineTurkeyTurkmenistanUzbekistan
Africa2 regions
native (2)AlgeriaMorocco
Broader regions
native:East Aegean Is., Kriti, Lebanon-Syria, Sinai, Tadzhikistan, Transcaucasus, Turkey-in-Europe, Yugoslavia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Anacardiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Anacardiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
XII
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