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Sugar bush, Chaparral Sumac
Scientific Name: Rhus ovata S. Watson
Synonym: Schmaltzia ovata
Family: Anacardiaceae

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Recommended Temperature Zone: sunset: 7-24 USDA: 7b-10 Sun Exposure: Full sun Origin: Arizona, California, northwestern Mexico, 4000 to 6000 feet elevation (1200-1800 m), in canyons Growth Habits: Evergreen bush, slowly growing to 12 feet tall (3.6 m), 12 feet wide (3.6 m); large fragrant ovate leathery leaves, 2.8 to 4 inches long (7-10 cm), with paler undersides Watering Needs: Little to moderate water, well drained soil Propagation: Seeds, heeled semihardwood cuttings in summer, root cuttings in December, suckers

Cultural Practices:
Plant in the fall or in winter.

Blooming Habits:
The Sugar bush has large clusters of pinkish buds becoming creamy flowers in late spring to summer.

Fruiting Habits:
The hairy reddish berries, 0.12 inch in diameter (3 mm), can be eaten raw or cooked, it has a thin layer of flesh. It can also be soaked for 30 to 60 minutes in water to make a refreshing lemonade like drink.

Propagation:
Seeds must be soaked for a day before planting. This treatment is more effective the water is warm (90°F - 32°C) when you start the soaking.