Threeleaf Sumac

Threeleaf sumac is a very tough, drought-tolerant native shrub. It grows naturally throughout the foothills of the Colorado Springs area.

Its three-lobed leaves are dark glossy green. It has tiny, greenish yellow flowers are not that noticeable in spring. They turn into sticky, fuzzy red fruit on female plants in late summer. The fall leaf color is brilliant red to orange.

When branches are broken they have an unpleasant odor, hence the name "skunkbush."

Threeleaf Sumac

Threeleaf sumac is a very tough, drought-tolerant native shrub. It grows naturally throughout the foothills of the Colorado Springs area.

Its three-lobed leaves are dark glossy green. It has tiny, greenish yellow flowers are not that noticeable in spring. They turn into sticky, fuzzy red fruit on female plants in late summer. The fall leaf color is brilliant red to orange.

When branches are broken they have an unpleasant odor, hence the name "skunkbush."

Plant details
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Botanic Name

Rhus trilobata

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Pronunciation

roos try-lo-BAY-tuh

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Mature Height

5 to 10 ft.

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Mature Spread

5 to 8 ft.

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Water usage
Water Usage

One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.

Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.

Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.

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Flower Color

yellow

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Bloom time

spring

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Colorado Native

Yes

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Natural Habitat

western United States

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Light Requirements

sun

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Cold Hardiness

USDA zones 3-8

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Elevation Limit

hardy to 9,000 ft.

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