Sumac

Description:

Small, thicket forming tree to 6 ft. Leaves are deciduous, alternate, compound, shiny and smooth on top, turning bright red in fall. Flowers are small, creamy white clusters on the ends of branches. Fruit is in dense clusters at end of branches.

Habitat:

Common on dry rocky hillsides, old fields, fencerows and openings in woodlands. These were growing in the Heritage Elementary School, Texas Our Heritage Garden, representing the ten eco regions of Texas.

Notes:

Sumacs are cousins to mangos and cashews. Southwestern Indians used various species in basketry, as dyes and medicines, and for making a cool, refreshing drink, reminiscent of lemonade. The hard, red drupes can be crushed and soaked in enough warm water to cover them to extract the juice. Let soak for 30 min, strain, and sweeten.