Chinese Sumac, Chinese Varnish Tree
 

Mature Size, Growth, Longevity

A large shrub or small tree to 25-30' tall and 20' wide, or under ideal conditions it may grow to 40' tall and 25' wide. Usually multi-stemmed.

Native Range

Often found in thickets and in woods in Eastern Asia, in Central and Western China, on slopes at elevations of 900-2500 meters. Introduced in 1902.

Flower and Fruit Details

Flowers are in weeping clusters, to 8", dioecious, compound, terminal panicles of off-white colored flowers in June/July, and are pollinated by bees. The flowers also attract butterflies. Flowering does not always occur. Clusters of peppercorn-sized fruits, occurring only on female plants, are red to reddish-brown, densely pubescent, covered by crimson hairs. Fruits and seeds ripen from August to October. An oil from the seeds is tallow-like, and is used in candle-making.

Leaf and Bark Features

Deciduous: The large leaves, to 16", are alternate, pinnately compound, with 7-11 leaflets per leaf. Leaves are high in tannins, and may be collected in the fall to create a brown dye. A black ink can be made from the galls that sometimes form on the leaves. Good red fall foliage color.

Culture and Care

Zones 6-8, with some reports of greater hardiness. Prefers full sun and well-drained soil, but tolerates clay. It prefers moist soil, and does not do well in the shade. Tolerant of acid or alkaline soils, from pH 5.6 to 8.5. Tolerates heat, humidity and pollution. Some leaf galls possible.

Strengths, Weaknesses, Other Facts

Some reports say it is resistant to deer and rabbits. 3-season interest: Spring, Summer & Fall. Plants have brittle branches that may break off in strong winds. Flowering and fruiting, even on female plants, may not occur on a regular basis on some plants of this species. New spring growth may be damaged by late spring frosts. The sap of the plant may cause an allergic skin reaction in some highly sensitive individuals.

Suggested Uses

Often used in woodland gardens and naturalized settings.

Taxa and Plants of this Species at BCA