Plant Description
Rhus dentata Thunb. var. fulvescens (Engl.) Burtt Davy, commonly known as the Chinese sumac or Tailing tanner’s Sumac, is a deciduous shrub belonging to the Anacardiaceae family. It is a slow-growing plant that can attain a height of up to 9 meters with a spread of 5 meters. The plant has a short trunk and a broad, rounded crown that creates a dense canopy, providing shade in the summer.
Origins
The Chinese sumac is indigenous to China, Japan, and Korea. It thrives in sunny, arid, and semi-arid climates. The plant prefers well-drained soils and can also grow in clay, loam, or sandy soils.
Common Names
The Chinese sumac has various common names across the regions where it grows. In China, the plant is known as Huang-shu, which translates to Yellow Tree, while in Japan, it is called Haguro-noki or the Varnish tree. In North America, the plant is known as the Tailing Tanner's Sumac.
Uses
The Chinese sumac is used for several medicinal and traditional purposes. In traditional Chinese medicine, the plant has been used to treat dysentery and fever. Rhus dentata extracts have antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. The Chinese sumac also has a long history of use in Japan in the production of lacquer and ink. In addition to medicinal and industrial uses, the plant is also utilized in landscaping and is suitable for attracting wildlife due to the berries and flowers it produces.
General appearance
The Chinese sumac is a striking deciduous shrub that is notable for its dense, rounded crown of glossy, bright green leaves that turn fiery orange in the fall. The shrub produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in the summer, turning into vibrant, crimson berry clusters that attract birds and small mammals in the fall. The stems of the plant are smooth and brown or grayish-black. The bark is thin and peels to reveal brown bark underneath. The leaves and young stems have a distinctive fruity aroma when crushed.
Light Requirements
Rhus dentata Thunb. var. fulvescens (Engl.) Burtt Davy thrives best in full sunlight exposure. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to maintain its health and growth. Insufficient light may cause stunted growth and weakens the plant's immune system.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can be grown in a wide range of temperature conditions. However, the ideal temperature for optimal growth is between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. Temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius may cause leaf fall, and prolonged exposure to temperatures above 37 degrees Celsius may result in permanent damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Rhus dentata Thunb. var. fulvescens (Engl.) Burtt Davy prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range for this plant is between 6.0 and 7.0. The soil must be moist, but not waterlogged, to prevent root rot. Sandy or clay soils can act as growth inhibitors, as they can restrict root growth and water drainage.
Cultivation Methods
Rhus dentata Thunb. var. fulvescens (Engl.) Burtt Davy thrives in well-drained soils with plenty of organic matter. To ensure optimal growth, cultivate in full sun and make sure the plant gets plenty of aeration and circulation. It can tolerate rocky or sandy soil, but the soil must be well-drained to avoid root rot.
The plant can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. For seeds, plant them in trays and cover with soil, misting regularly. Gradually increase the light and temperature until the plants are ready for transplanting. When propagating through cuttings, use a rooting hormone to encourage root development.
Watering Needs
Rhus dentata Thunb. var. fulvescens (Engl.) Burtt Davy prefers moist soil, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Water deeply once a week, and adjust the frequency according to rainfall and soil drainage. When established, the plant can tolerate drought but may require some watering during dry periods.
Fertilization
Rhus dentata Thunb. var. fulvescens (Engl.) Burtt Davy doesn't require frequent fertilization. However, incorporating compost or well-rotted manure during planting will help improve soil fertility and boost growth. If necessary, apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilization as it can lead to excessive foliage growth, reducing the plant's overall health.
Pruning
The plant can be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Prune out dead, diseased, or damaged branches to maintain healthy growth. Remove any crossing or rubbing branches and those that may prevent adequate aeration and sunlight penetration. Prune to shape the plant, but avoid excessive pruning, which may inhibit flowering and fruiting.
Propagation of Rhus dentata Thunb. var. fulvescens (Engl.) Burtt Davy
Rhus dentata Thunb. var. fulvescens (Engl.) Burtt Davy, commonly known as the African sumac, is a shrub that belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. It is primarily found in southern Africa, including Namibia and South Africa. In cultivation, this plant can be propagated through various methods.
Seed Propagation
The easiest way to propagate the African sumac is through seeds. The seeds should be collected from mature fruits and should be sown in a well-drained soil mix. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, until the seeds have germinated. Germination can take anywhere from two weeks to a month.
Cuttings Propagation
Rhus dentata Thunb. var. fulvescens can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken during the summer months when the plant is actively growing. The stems should be about 10 cm long and should be removed from the main plant using a sharp, clean pair of scissors. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be planted in a well-drained soil mix. The soil should be kept moist and the cuttings should be kept in a warm, humid environment until roots have formed.
Air Layering Propagation
The African sumac can also be propagated through air layering. This method involves making a small cut in the stem of the plant and then wrapping a moist growing medium around the wound. The growing medium is then covered with plastic wrap to keep it moist. Over time, roots will form, and the newly rooted stem can be cut from the main plant and planted in its own pot.
Overall, the African sumac is an easy-to-grow plant that can be propagated through various methods. Whether you choose to propagate through seeds, cuttings, or air layering, the key to success is to provide the plant with the right growing conditions and to be patient while the plant establishes itself.
Disease Management
One of the most common diseases that may afflict Rhus dentata Thunb. var. fulvescens (Engl.) Burtt Davy is anthracnose. This fungal infection manifests in spots on the leaves, stems, and fruit. These spots eventually turn brownish-black and may form lesions that can cause the plant to wither and die. The best way to manage anthracnose is through cultural controls such as removing infected plant parts and providing adequate air circulation and sunlight. Fungicides may also be used, but these should be applied in the early stages of the disease.
Another fungal disease that may affect Rhus dentata Thunb. var. fulvescens (Engl.) Burtt Davy is powdery mildew. This disease makes the leaves appear white or grayish with a powdery substance on them. It may also cause stunted growth and leaf drop. Unlike anthracnose, powdery mildew prefers higher humidity levels and may easily spread to other parts of the plant. Infected leaves should be removed and fungicides applied according to label instructions.
Pest Management
Aphids are one of the most common pests that may infest Rhus dentata Thunb. var. fulvescens (Engl.) Burtt Davy. These sap-sucking insects may cause the leaves to curl and turn yellow. They also excrete a sticky substance known as honeydew that may serve as a breeding ground for sooty mold. Aphids can be managed by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Introducing natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings may also help control their populations.
Spider mites are another pest that may affect Rhus dentata Thunb. var. fulvescens (Engl.) Burtt Davy. These tiny arachnids puncture plant cells to feed on their contents, causing leaves to turn yellow and dry out. They may also produce webbing that can cover the plant. Spider mites thrive in hot and dry conditions, so frequent watering and maintaining higher humidity levels may help manage them. Miticides may also be used, but should be applied properly to avoid harming beneficial insects and plants nearby.
