Rhus

Rhus is a genus of about 35 species of deciduous shrubs and small trees in the sumac family, Anacardiaceae. The species are native to temperate and subtropical regions worldwide, with a majority of the species native to North America.

Description

Rhus species are generally shrubs or small trees. The leaves are spirally arranged; they are usually pinnately compound, though some species have trifoliate or simple leaves. The flowers are small, produced in dense inflorescences.

Uses

Several species of Rhus are popular ornamental plants in landscaping for their fall foliage. The fruit of some species, such as Rhus glabra (smooth sumac), is edible and is used in traditional medicine.

Species

Some of the species in the Rhus genus include:

• Rhus aromatica – Fragrant sumac
• Rhus copallinum – Winged or shining sumac
• Rhus glabra – Smooth sumac
• Rhus lancea – African sumac
• Rhus typhina – Staghorn sumac

Toxicity

Some species of Rhus can cause allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to the plants. The most well-known of these is Rhus toxicodendron, commonly known as poison ivy.

See also

• List of Rhus species
• Anacardiaceae

References

Rhus Resources
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