The ‘Tiger Eyes’ Sumac, Rhus typhina ‘Bailtiger’, is a highly prized ornamental plant known for its striking foliage. Its deeply cut, almost lacy leaves emerge in vibrant golden-chartreuse, maintaining a bright yellow hue throughout the summer. As autumn approaches, this deciduous shrub transforms, displaying brilliant shades of orange, scarlet, and purple, complemented by its distinctive rosy-pink stems. This unique texture and seasonal color display make it a popular choice for diverse landscape designs.
Understanding Tiger Eyes Sumac Growth
‘Tiger Eyes’ Sumac is characterized as a slow to moderate grower, distinguishing it from its more aggressive species counterparts. Under optimal conditions, this shrub typically adds around 1 to 2 feet (30-60 cm) of growth annually to its main structure. It develops into a rounded, spreading clump, exhibiting an upright form in its younger stages that gradually becomes more open with maturity. This cultivar typically reaches a mature height and spread of 6 to 15 feet (1.8-4.5 m). While the plant itself grows slowly, its root system can produce suckers that contribute to its overall spread more rapidly.
Factors Affecting Growth Rate
The growth rate of ‘Tiger Eyes’ Sumac is significantly influenced by its environmental conditions and care. For the most vigorous growth and intense foliage coloration, planting in full sun, meaning at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, is beneficial. While it can tolerate partial shade, growth may be slower, and the characteristic vibrant leaf colors might be less pronounced.
This sumac adapts to a wide array of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or even clay soils, provided there is good drainage. It thrives in slightly acidic to neutral pH levels, adapting to various soil chemistries. Poorly drained conditions, however, can hinder its health and growth.
Proper watering is particularly important during the plant’s establishment period, typically its first two to three growing seasons, requiring consistent moisture without becoming waterlogged. Once established, ‘Tiger Eyes’ Sumac exhibits notable drought tolerance. A light application of a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring and fall can support robust growth, especially in nutrient-poor soils. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8.
Managing Size and Spread
Managing the size and spread of ‘Tiger Eyes’ Sumac involves strategic pruning and attention to its suckering habit. Pruning is best performed in late winter to early spring, before new growth emerges, allowing for clear visibility of the plant’s structure. This timing helps maintain the desired shape and ultimate size, and can also involve removing any dead, damaged, or unruly branches.
Although ‘Tiger Eyes’ is less aggressive than other sumac species, prompt removal of suckers at their point of origin is effective in controlling its spread. Cutting them back to the ground helps prevent the formation of larger colonies.
Considering its mature dimensions and suckering potential, selecting an appropriate planting location is important. Adequate spacing should be provided to accommodate its eventual height and spread, preventing future issues with encroachment on other plants or structures. This thoughtful placement minimizes the need for extensive corrective pruning and sucker management over time.