African Sumac

If someone with a black thumb were to ask which tree they should plant in the Palm Springs region, African sumac would be one of our recommendations.

It’s a nearly indestructible and freely reseeding tree- so much so that it’s considered invasive in some parts of the country.

But in the right setting, the graceful and easygoing African tree sumac provides excellent shade from the heat and fruits for songbirds to eat.

Botanical name: Searsia lancea

Other names: Rhus lancea, karee tree, willow rhus

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African sumac is a medium-sized evergreen tree that grows to 30-40 feet tall and equally wide.

Has an informal, weeping appearance.

Reddish brown trunk and branches turn into gray.

The easiest way to identify this tree is through its leaves, which consist of 3 lanceolate leaflets (hence the scientific name Searsia lancea). Younger leaves are light green and turn a deeper color as they mature.

Tiny, green-yellow flowers grow in clusters when in bloom.

Followed by small, round fruits that darken in color as they mature.

Attracts birds when it produces fruits.

Can be messy due to leaf, fruit, and flower drop. We don't recommend planting it near swimming pools.

Very rigorous trees in the desert that frequently outcompete other nearby plants. It has an extensive root system that can easily absorb water. It also reseeds and spreads readily. It may require control from spreading too quickly. Do not plant near natural preserves.

Extremely heat and drought-tolerant.

It will naturally grow to a large shrub-like tree. Prune it to develop a strong, central trunk and to keep the branches from hanging too low.

The canopy can grow as wide as the tree's height, providing excellent shade.

African sumac is from warm and dry regions in Southern Africa

Soil: Loose, well-draining soil that is lightly fertile.

Temperature: It can withstand temperatures down to 15 degrees for a short period of time and does very well in heat.

Water: Apply occasional, deep watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Use a moisture meter or stick your finger through the soil to gauge the moisture level. It’s better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering.

Sun: Full sun. Partial shade in the Palm Springs area is ok.

Pests: African sumac has minimal pests, which include aphids, especially when in bloom.

To control aphids, blast them off with water if the infestation is light. Otherwise, use horticultural oil or soapy water. Repeated application is necessary to disrupt their life cycles.

Whenever using any pesticide, be aware that it can damage the plant if the temperatures are in the 80s or above.

Signs of overwatering: Drooping, squishy texture, weak branch growth, leaf drop

Signs of too little water: Shriveling, drying skin, leaf drop

Signs of too much sun: Burning, scarring, fading color

Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, discoloring, lack of flowers

Obtain seeds from the fruits once they have ripened on the branches.

Alternatively, wait for the tree to create seedlings nearby. African sumac readily reseeds itself.

How much does an African Sumac tree cost?

At our nursery, an African sumac costs $120 for a 15-gallon container, $250 for a 24-inch box, $500 for a 30-inch box, $750 for a 36-inch box, and $2,500 for a 48-inch + box.

Prices are subject to change. Please contact us for the most up-to-date information on pricing. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.

Are African sumac trees messy?

Yes, they are quite messy due to leaf, fruit, and flower drop.

Do African sumacs require irrigation?

African sumac trees are very hardy in our desert region. However, they do require occasional deep watering in the summer.