Rhus ovata (Sugar Bush)

Rhus ovata (Sugar Bush) white and red flower close up on a branch
Rhus ovata (Sugar Bush) with clusters of white and red flower buds on a branch.

Botanical name: Rhus ovata

Common names: Sugar Bush, Chaparral Sumac

Family: Anacardiaceae

Origin: California and Arizona

USDA Plant Hardiness MapLarge shrub 5-10 ft tallFull sunWater Requirement: Low. Allow soil to dry out between wateringsWatering: Moderate. Water when top soil feels dryWhite, off-white flowersEdible plantPlant attracts butterflies, hummingbirds

This native of Southern California and Arizona has large white flower clusters in March-May, large leathery leaves and reddish berries used to make lemonade-like drink. Sugar bush likes sun and little or no water after established.

Propagation: Seeds, heeled semihardwood cuttings in summer, root cuttings in December, suckers.

Similar plants: Rhus ovata (Sugar Bush)




Link to this plant:
https://toptropicals.com/catalog/uid/rhus_ovata.htm