Staghorn sumac (Rhus typhina) is a common deciduous shrub or small tree native to eastern North America, from southeastern Canada to the Appalachian Mountains. Easily identified by its distinctive, velvety branches resembling a stag’s antlers and upright, cone-shaped clusters of fuzzy, bright red berries, it thrives in open, sunny locations like roadsides, field edges, and disturbed areas.
Culinary and Nutritional Benefits
The ripe, red berries of staghorn sumac are used to create a refreshing, tart beverage. This drink, often called “sumac-ade” or “Indian lemonade,” is made by soaking fruit clusters in cold water. Cold water extracts the lemony flavor without drawing out bitter tannins from seeds and stalks. After steeping for several hours, the liquid is strained through a fine cloth, resulting in a pink-hued drink that can be sweetened.
Beyond beverages, the dried and ground berries serve as a spice. This reddish-purple powder imparts a tangy, acidic flavor to various dishes and is a common component of Middle Eastern spice blends like za’atar. The berries contain carbohydrates, protein, and fats, including oleic and linoleic acids. They are also a source of vitamin C and antioxidants.
Traditional and Potential Health Applications
Staghorn sumac has a long history of traditional uses, particularly among Indigenous peoples. Leaves, bark, and berries were used in various applications. Infusions or tinctures from these parts were traditionally applied externally for weeping sores or skin irritations. Internally, berry infusions were used for intestinal issues and as a general tonic.
Its astringent qualities, meaning its ability to contract tissues, were used in traditional medicine. This property made it suitable for use in mouth rinses for soft or bleeding gums, and as a wash for acne. It was also used for coughs, sore throats, and to support kidney and bladder health. Modern interest in sumac focuses on its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, with ongoing research exploring these benefits.
Ecological and Landscape Contributions
Staghorn sumac offers several ecological and landscape benefits. It has a broad, spreading habit and vibrant fall foliage, transitioning through shades of yellow, orange, and bright red. Its ability to spread through root suckers allows it to form dense thickets, effective in stabilizing soil and preventing erosion on slopes and disturbed areas. This makes it suitable for naturalized plantings and site reclamation.
Fuzzy, red fruit clusters persist throughout the winter, providing a food source for wildlife when other options are scarce. Numerous bird species, including pheasants, quail, turkeys, and various songbirds, consume the fruits. Mammals like white-tailed deer and cottontail rabbits also browse on the leaves and twigs. The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Important Safety and Identification Considerations
Accurate identification of staghorn sumac is important to distinguish it from other plants, particularly poison sumac (Toxicodendron vernix). Staghorn sumac has fuzzy, reddish stems and upright clusters of bright red, persistent berries. Its leaves are compound with 11 to 31 serrated leaflets. In contrast, poison sumac grows exclusively in wet, swampy areas, with smooth, non-fuzzy stems and drooping clusters of waxy, white or greenish-white berries. Its leaves typically have 7 to 13 smooth-edged leaflets.
While staghorn sumac is not poisonous, individuals with allergies to plants in the cashew family, such as cashews or mangoes, may experience a reaction. This is because staghorn sumac belongs to the Anacardiaceae family, which includes both edible and toxic species. When harvesting any wild plant, ensure its identity and take precautions.