Rhus ovata aka Sugar Sumac

Rhus ovata is an evergreen shrub called sugar bush or sugar sumac. It belongs to the cashew family, Anacardiaceae. Its native range spans California, Arizona, and northern Mexico. It grows in chaparral, oak woods, and dry shrubland. In California, it occurs on rocky slopes away from the coast. Garden plants reach 4–10 feet (1.2–3 metres), with a similar spread. Some grow to 15 feet (4.6 metres). Plants may stand upright or spread into broad thickets.

The leaves grow in an alternate pattern along the stems. Each leaf is simple, egg-shaped, leathery, and sharply tipped. Many fold along the central vein. Their edges are mostly smooth, though some have teeth. The upper surface is glossy green; the underside is paler. The leaves also have a scent. Young twigs are red and green, then turn gray. Small, hairy buds sit close to the leaf stalks. Smooth, gray-brown bark becomes rough and scaly with age.

Small white or pink flowers appear in spring. They have five petals and form dense clusters at twig tips. Bees pollinate the flowers. Plants For A Future reports separate male and female plants. Both sexes are needed to produce seed. Small red fruits carry glandular hairs and a sticky, sweet coating. They ripen in late summer and can remain through winter. Sources differ on fruit size, but agree that little flesh surrounds the seed.

Grow sugar bush in full sun and well-drained soil. Oregon State also allows light shade. It suits sandy or loamy ground across mildly acid to mildly alkaline conditions. It can grow in poor soil and withstand drought. Hot, dry sites suit it well. Hardiness reports differ: Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 8–11. Oregon State places its lower limit at zone 9. British outdoor growth may prove difficult, even in mild areas. Late frost can harm new shoots. Strong winds can snap brittle branches, and coral spot fungus can occur.

Its broad form suits beds and warm wall sites. Extensive roots help hold dry soil against erosion. People eat the fruit raw or cooked, or steep it for drinks. The sweet fruit coating serves as a flavouring. Leaves have supplied tea, dye, and traditional remedies. Seed oil has served in candle making. These recorded uses do not establish medical safety or benefit. Reports of sap causing skin rashes remain unconfirmed. Plants For A Future advises caution with leaves and stems.