Overview
Rhus laevigata L. var. villosa (L.f.) R.Fern. is a species of shrub in the sumac family (Anacardiaceae) native to southeastern United States and northeastern Mexico. Commonly known as the smooth sumac, this plant can reach up to 10 feet in height and spread up to 15 feet in width.
Appearance
The smooth sumac has long, whitish-grey stems that grow from a single trunk, which can divide into multiple stems near the base. The leaves are pinnately compound, meaning they consist of several leaflets that grow along a central stem. The leaflets are glossy green in color and change to red or orange in the fall. The plant produces terminal panicles of greenish-yellow flowers that bloom from June to August, followed by clusters of fuzzy red berries that persist through winter.
Common Names
The smooth sumac is also known by various other names, including velvet sumac, scarlet sumac, and hairy sumac.
Uses
The smooth sumac has a variety of traditional uses. The berries can be used to make lemonade-like drinks, jellies, and dyes. Native Americans used the plant for medicinal purposes, including as a treatment for diarrhea, dysentery, and fever. The bark and leaves were also used to treat wounds and skin irritations. Today, the plant is used in landscaping and for erosion control due to its tolerance for poor soil and ability to spread rapidly.
Light Requirements
Rhus laevigata L. var. villosa (L.f.) R.Fern. grows optimally in full sunlight. It cannot tolerate heavy shade and may even die in deep shade. Therefore, it is essential to plant it in an area that receives ample sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to the southeastern United States and typically grows in areas with hot summers and mild winters. It is hardy to USDA zones 7-10 and can survive minimum temperatures of -10 to 0 degrees Celsius. Rhus laevigata L. var. villosa (L.f.) R.Fern. thrives in warmer temperatures and requires a long growing season to produce viable fruit.
Soil Requirements
Rhus laevigata L. var. villosa (L.f.) R.Fern. prefers well-drained soils that are slightly acidic. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it is essential for the soil to have adequate moisture and good drainage to prevent waterlogging. Adding organic matter can help improve the soil quality and provide necessary nutrients for the plant's growth.
Cultivation methods
Rhus laevigata L. var. villosa (L.f.) R.Fern. is a shrub species that is well-suited for cultivation in warm regions. It requires well-draining soil and a sunny spot to thrive properly. Before planting the shrub, ensure that the soil is loosened and amended with organic matter to improve its fertility. Planting can be done in the fall or spring seasons and should be done as per the planting guidelines for shrubs.
Watering needs
Rhus laevigata L. var. villosa (L.f.) R.Fern. requires moderate watering when grown in the ground. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering the shrub as this could lead to root rot and other related problems. Watering should be done in the early morning or late evening, as watering during the day could result in water evaporation.
Fertilization
Fertilization should be done once in early spring every year to ensure that the shrub grows healthy and robust. Organic fertilizers are preferred to synthetic fertilizers as they contain beneficial nutrients that help the shrub thrive. A well-balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in equal parts is recommended. Avoid overfeeding the shrub as this could lead to excessive growth that is not desirable.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential part of the care regimen of Rhus laevigata L. var. villosa (L.f.) R.Fern. The correct timing for pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. The pruning should be done to remove dead or diseased branches, control the size, and shape of the shrub. Use clean and sharp pruning tools to avoid damaging the shrub. Regular pruning helps to keep the shrub healthy and vigorous.
Propagation of Rhus laevigata L. var. villosa (L.f.) R.Fern.
Rhus laevigata L. var. villosa (L.f.) R.Fern. can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods. The plant's seeds can be used for sexual propagation, while cuttings and layering can be used for asexual propagation.
Sexual Propagation
To propagate Rhus laevigata L. var. villosa (L.f.) R.Fern. through seeds, collect the seeds from mature fruits in the autumn season. Remove the seeds from the fruits, clean them thoroughly, and store them in a dry and cool place until the spring season arrives. In spring, sow the seeds in well-drained soil in a nursery bed. The seedlings will emerge within a few weeks, and they can be transplanted to their permanent location in the garden or container after they have grown to a suitable size.
Asexual Propagation
The two asexual propagation methods that can be used for Rhus laevigata L. var. villosa (L.f.) R.Fern. are cuttings and layering.
Cuttings
Take cuttings during the late spring or summer season from the current year's growth. Cuttings should be approximately 6 inches long, and should include at least two nodes. Plant the cuttings in well-draining soil in a nursery bed, and make sure to keep the soil moist. Roots will develop within a few weeks, after which the cuttings can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Layering
Layering involves bending one of the long stems of the plant down to the ground and making a shallow cut in the stem where it touches the soil. Cover the cut portion of the stem with soil and secure it in place with a small stake or rock. This will encourage the stem to form roots at the cut area. After several months, the rooted stem can be removed from the parent plant and planted in a new location.
Disease and Pest Management for Rhus laevigata L. var. villosa (L.f.) R.Fern.
Rhus laevigata L. var. villosa (L.f.) R.Fern. is vulnerable to several diseases and pests, which can cause severe damage to the plant. Effective disease and pest management practices are essential to maintain the health and productivity of the plant. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests affecting Rhus laevigata L. var. villosa (L.f.) R.Fern. and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Canker: Canker is a fungal disease that causes the bark to split and die. The infected branches eventually die and must be pruned to prevent the spread of the disease. Preventive measures include pruning diseased branches below the area of the infection, improving air circulation around the plant, and maintaining proper fertilization and irrigation.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves, leading to defoliation and weakening of the plant. The infected leaves should be removed immediately, and fungicides can be used to prevent further infection. Improving air circulation and avoiding overhead irrigation can also help manage the disease.
Phytophthora Root Rot: Phytophthora root rot is a soil-borne disease that causes root rot and ultimately kills the plant. There is no cure for the disease once it has infected the plant, making prevention the only management option. Preventive measures include proper drainage, avoiding overwatering, and planting in well-draining soil.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. They can be managed through the introduction of natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, or through the application of insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Japanese Beetle: Japanese beetles are notorious pests that can cause severe damage to the foliage and flowers of the plant. Handpicking the beetles off the plant and applying insecticides can manage the infestation.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars, including the Gypsy moth caterpillar, can quickly defoliate the plant. Physical removal of the caterpillars by handpicking them off the plant and the use of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can help manage the infestation.
Following proper disease and pest management practices can significantly reduce the damage caused by diseases and pests and promote the growth and productivity of Rhus laevigata L. var. villosa (L.f.) R.Fern.
