Fruit[423 ]. The fruit has been fermented to make a beer[423 ]. The fruit is a small round, glossy tan drupe, 4 - 6mm in diameter, in a hanging many branched cluster[1212 ]. The berries are typically harvested in late summer to early autumn, when they are fully ripe. Sumac generally flowers in early to mid-summer.

Plants For A Future can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally.


The roots, leaves and stem bark treat skin diseases[299 ]. A root infusion treats abdominal and chest complaints and diarrhoea[299 ]. The roots are chewed as a treatment against stomachache [299 ]. A leaf decoction or infusion treats measles and pustules[299 ]. The vapours from leaves in a hot water bath are inhaled to cure cough[299 ]. Bark extracts have shown in-vitro antibacterial activity against many gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria[299 ]. The leaves yield 0.2% of essential oil, with a-pinene, benzene and d-3-carene as main constituents. The oil showed remarkable anti-oxidant activity and dose-dependent antibacterial and antifungal activities. These activities may be associated with the high concentration of a-pinene in the oil (87%).[299 ].

Commonly used as a shade tree, windbreak, or ornamental plant in water-wise gardens. Its dense canopy makes it an excellent choice for erosion control and urban landscaping. Agroforestry Uses: Searsia lancea (Rhus lancea) is suitable as a large hedge along the boundaries of properties such as farms because of its dense growth habit[295, 317 ]. The density of the plant makes it suitable for use as a screen or barrier against wind, noise or objectionable views, as well as to provide privacy[295 ]. Searsia lancea helps stabilise natural soil and increase rainwater infiltration into the soil, thus reducing erosion and raising the groundwater table[295 ]. The tree has no aggressive root system and can be used near paving and tarred surfaces[295 ]. Because the karee is hardy, frost-resistant and evergreen, it is ideal for establishing a protective canopy for frost-sensitive and shade-loving plants. It is thus a possible pioneer plant for establishing a new forest in an area that receives frost[295 ]. The plant is considered an indicator of underground water[299 ]. Other Uses: The bark, twigs and leaves are sources of tannin[295 ]. A brown dye is obtained from the bark[299 ]. The reddish-brown wood is fine textured, heavy, hard, tough and durable[299 ]. It has a sweetish and spicy smell, works well and takes a nice polish. It is used for fence posts, tool handles and parts of wagons[295, 299 ]. Bowls, tobacco pipes and bows were also made from the wood[295 ]. Nectary - Flowers rich in nectar and pollen: Sumac flowers produce nectar and pollen, attracting pollinators such as bees, wasps, and butterflies. Wildlife - Food (Fruit, Seeds, Leaf litter, Shelter, Nesting, Roosting): Sumac provides food for wildlife through its clusters of red, berry-like fruits, which birds and small mammals eat. The dense, shrubby form also offers shelter and nesting sites for birds. Invertebrate Shelter (Overwintering sites, Leaf litter, Groundcover): Sumac’s fallen leaf litter provides habitat for invertebrates, and its dense structure can provide shelter for overwintering insects and Groundcover. Pest Confuser (Smell): Sumac does not have a strong aromatic smell commonly used to confuse or repel pests.

Special Uses