African sumac

Common Name(s)

African sumac

Willow rhus

Karee

Scientific Name

Rhus lancea

Family

Cashew family (Anacardiaceae)

Reasons for concern

African sumac grows in riparian areas and can harm them by diverting channel flow, which increases risk for disruptive erosion. They also compete with native plants, like mesquite for water using their extensive root system. This tree grows quickly, and thus is difficult to control once established. They also drop many leaves continuously throughout the year and cause allergies.

Botanical description

Leaves

Evergreen, 4-10 cm long, 0.5-1.0 cm wide, leathery texture, dark shiny green above, pale-green beneath leaves in groups of 3

Stem(s)

The main trunk can grow up to 10 m long and has dark gray bark. Younger branches and twigs are thinner and can be reddish in color.

Flowers

Yellow green to pale green, 2-3 mm long, flower during summer months.

Fruit

Clusters of 5 mm diameter wrinkly tan or red colored, spherical, fruit during fall months.

Native to

Southern Africa

Where it grows

Riparian areas, urban areas, tolerant of alkaline soil, partial shade

Lifecycle

Perennial

Reproduction

Seeds germinate very easily as long as they have access to a seasonal water source

Weedy Characteristics

Seeds spread and germinate easily. African sumac out compete native species easily

Look-alike Plants

Desert willow (Chilopsis linearis) can be distinguished by its funnel shaped pink and purple flowers. Their leaves are similar shape to African sumac, but they are not grouped in 3s.

Control Strategies

Choose native trees like velvet mesquite for landscaping. Younger trees can be removed manually

Gallery

References