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Rhus wallichii

Rhus wallichii
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Rhus wallichii (Rhus wallichii) — botanical photograph
Pl. F97C — Rhus wallichii
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Overview

Rhus wallichii, commonly known as the Himalayan sumac or Tibetan sumac, is a deciduous shrub to small tree native to regions including China South-Central, Southeast, East Himalaya, Nepal, Thailand, Tibet, and Vietnam. This plant thrives in moist conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils, making it adaptable to various growing environments. It can grow up to 8 meters tall and is known for its edible fruits, which are often used in local cuisines. The plant's adaptability to different soil types and its ornamental value make it a valuable choice for gardens and landscapes. While primarily used for its fruits and ornamental qualities, Rhus wallichii also has utility in the production of oil, dyes, lacquer, mordants, preservatives, and waxes, contributing to its economic importance in certain regions. This versatile plant is hardy in temperate regions but may require protection in colder areas. Propagation can be done through seeds or cuttings.

Quick answers

What is Rhus wallichii?

Rhus wallichii, commonly known as the Himalayan sumac or Tibetan sumac, is a deciduous shrub to small tree native to regions including China South-Central, Southeast, East Himalaya, Nepal, Thailand, Tibet, and Vietnam.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Rhus wallichii thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This plant is hardy in temperate regions but may require protection in colder areas. Propagation can be done through seeds or cuttings. With proper care, it can grow up to 8 meters tall and is native to China South-Central, Southeast, East Himalaya, Nepal, Thailand, Tibet, and Vietnam.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Mature size
8.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Rhus wallichii for the first time

8steps

Start with Rhus wallichii by planting it in a sunny spot and providing regular care.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A young plant or seeds, a trowel, compost, and mulch.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant Rhus wallichii in spring after the last frost or in autumn before the first freeze.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Ensure the soil is well-draining with a mix of light, medium, and heavy types. Amend with compost if needed.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant young plants or sow seeds directly in the ground after preparing the soil.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and mulch around the base for moisture retention.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun exposure and regular watering. Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune Rhus wallichii in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and maintain size.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without amending, neglecting regular pruning, not providing enough sunlight, and using too much fertilizer.

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Edible & utility

Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:DyeLacquerMordantoilPreservativeWaxLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

8 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 8 native
Asia4 regions
native (4)ChinaNepalThailandVietnam
Broader regions
native:East Himalaya, West Himalaya
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Rhus wallichii (Rhus wallichii) — botanical photograph
Rhus wallichii (Rhus wallichii)
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Explore further

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