Re: African Sumac

Hey Laura -

Rhus lancea, the African Sumac, is mentioned as hedge material routinely in
literature (not just Sunset).  Here is an example on a South African (region
of its nativity) website:
http://www.plantzafrica.com/plantqrs/rhuslancea.htm
These plants are naturally multi-trunked - tree specimens have to be trained
into a 'lolly-pop' shape.  While they may not make the best TRIMMED hedge, I
can see that they would make a charming informal hedge with light pruning to
help encourage fill-in.

I love the drab-green, lacy foliage - it gives a light texture and is a nice
compliment for strident sunset colors.  It fits appropriate color schemes for
mid-century modern homes and landscape design, and has the natural looking
branching pattern usually desired for that use.

Seán A. O'Hara
sean(at)gimcw.org
www.hortulusaptus.com
(ask about mediterranean climate gardening forum)

> Dear Medit plants people-
>
> Has anyone had much experience with African Sumac?
> I was just given 7 trees, 5 gallon size.
> I have often wondered about using these trees as I love the foliage,
> but other than one at the Huntington, used singly, I haven't seen any
> others of any maturity here.  I'm thinking of using them as a large
> soft screen from the street, with some other large shrubs mixed in.
> Sunset Western Garden says they can be pruned as a hedge but I have
> difficulty believing that--
>
> Anyone with any experience on using these trees in a group?
>
> Thanks in advance-
>
> Laura
> Glassell Park/North East Los Angeles
>
>
Other Mailing lists | Author Index | Date Index | Subject Index | Thread Index