Rhus coriaria aka Tanner's Sumac

Rhus coriaria is a deciduous shrub in the Anacardiaceae family. Common names include Sicilian sumac, elm-leaved sumach, and tanner's sumach. Its native range spans Macaronesia and the Mediterranean to Afghanistan. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. In the wild, it grows on rocky ground and roadsides. Many of these sites lie on limestone. Kew also records its growth form as a shrub or tree.

In cultivation, this shrub reaches about 10 feet [3 metres]. It grows at a moderate rate and sheds its leaves. Its branches are brittle and may snap in strong winds. Flowers appear from July to August, according to Plants For A Future. Each flower has both male and female organs. Bees pollinate the flowers, and the plant is self-fertile. The fruit and seeds have recorded food uses, though safety warnings need care.

Choose a sunny site with fertile soil that drains well. It can grow in sandy, loamy, or clay soil. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline conditions. Soil may be dry or moist, but shade is unsuitable. Plants For A Future gives USDA zones 8–11. Its accounts of British hardiness conflict. One limits outdoor planting to the mildest areas. Another reports that British gardens often grow it. Late spring frosts can harm new shoots. Young plants raised from seed need greenhouse shelter during their first winter.

The shrub suits sunny woodland edges, hedges, and borders. Its dense growth offers cover and habitat for wildlife. Plants For A Future also lists use for erosion control. Leaves and bark contain tannins used in tanning and dyeing. Fallen leaves can supply dye or help fix other dyes. Fruit and bark also have dye uses. Coral spot fungus can affect this species. Strong winds pose another risk because of its weak branches.

Food records include unripe fruit used in place of capers. Crushed fruit forms part of the Middle Eastern spice blend za'atar. Seeds also have a recorded use as an appetiser. Yet Plants For A Future calls both fruit and sap poisonous. It also warns of severe irritation in some people. These conflicting reports prevent a simple claim of food safety. Leaves and seeds have recorded medicinal uses, with similar cautions.