Lemon Sumach, Fragrant sumac

Rhus aromatica

Physical Characteristics

Rhus aromatica is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.2 m (4ft) by 1.5 m (5ft in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in April, and the seeds ripen in September. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Quebec to Florida and Indiana to Texas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Oil Edible Uses: Drink Oil Fruit - raw or cooked[2, 22]. The fruit is small with very little flesh, but it is easily harvested and when soaked for 10 - 30 minutes in hot or cold water makes a very refreshing lemonade-like drink (without any fizz of course)[61, 85, 183, K]. The mixture should not be boiled since this will release tannic acids and make the drink astringent. The fruit can also be dried and ground into a powder then mixed with corn meal and used in cakes, porridges etc[183].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Diuretic Dysentery The leaves are astringent and diuretic[61, 222]. They were used in the treatment of colds, stomach aches and bleeding[222]. The root bark is astringent and diuretic[4, 222]. An infusion can be used in the treatment of diarrhoea, dysentery. Used externally, it is used to treat excessive vaginal discharge and skin eruptions and also as a gargle for sore throats[254]. Its use is contraindicated if inflammation is present[222]. The root is harvested in the autumn and dried for later use[254]. The fruits are astringent and diuretic[254]. They have been chewed in the treatment of stomach aches, toothaches and gripe[222] and used as a gargle to treat mouth and throat complaints[254]. They help reduce fevers and may be of help in treating late-onset diabetes[254]. Some caution is advised in the use of the leaves and stems of this plant, see the notes above on toxicity.

Known Hazards

There are some suggestions that the sap of this species can cause a skin rash in susceptible people, but this has not been substantiated. See also notes in 'Cultivation Details'.