Staghorn Sumac
Hardiness zone: 3
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Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina)
Fast-Growing Native Landscape Shrub for Ontario and Eastern Canada (Zones 3–7)
Quick Expert Summary
The Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina) is a fast-growing, extremely cold-hardy native shrub or small tree ideal for Ontario and Eastern Canada (Zones 3–7). It typically grows 2–3 ft per year (60–90 cm) and reaches 15–20 ft (4.5–6 m) at maturity. Best for naturalized landscapes, erosion control, and large property planting, it offers spectacular red fall colour and exceptional adaptability to poor soils and harsh growing conditions.
Why Choose Staghorn Sumac for Ontario and Eastern Canada?
Staghorn Sumac is a rugged native plant perfect for difficult sites, offering rapid growth, strong visual impact, and excellent resilience in Canadian climates.
- Hardiness: Zone 3 (Ideal for Ontario and Eastern Canada Zones 3–7)
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Best For: Naturalization, erosion control, large landscapes
- Maintenance: Low once established
- Key Feature: Bright red fall colour and ornamental red fruit clusters
- Native / Non-native: Native to Canada and eastern North America
It adapts well to:
- Sandy soils
- Loamy soils
- Poor, rocky, or dry soils
- Urban and rural conditions
- Wind, drought, and harsh environments
Tree/Shrub Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Mature Height | 15–20 ft (4.5–6 m) |
| Mature Spread | 10–15 ft (3–4.5 m) |
| Growth Rate | 2–3 ft per year |
| Hardiness Zone | 3 (Ideal for Ontario and Eastern Canada Zones 3–7) |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil Preference | Adaptable (sand, loam, clay, poor soils) |
| Water Needs | Low (regular first year) |
| Drought Tolerance | High once established |
| Deer Resistance | Moderate |
| Lifespan | 30–50+ years |
Is Staghorn Sumac Right for Your Yard?
Choose Staghorn Sumac if:
- You want fast coverage within 2–5 years
- You have a medium to large yard
- You live in Zone 3–7
- You want bold fall colour + low-maintenance growth
- You need a plant for slopes, natural areas, or screening
Not ideal if:
- Your yard is very small (spreads aggressively)
- You need a formal or compact tree
- You are planting too close to foundations or paved areas
Best Uses
- Erosion control on slopes
- Naturalized landscapes
- Privacy screening (informal)
- Large property planting
- Wildlife habitat
Why it works: Staghorn Sumac spreads through suckering roots to form dense colonies, stabilizing soil and filling large spaces quickly. Its striking foliage and red fruit clusters provide strong ornamental value and support wildlife.
What Makes Staghorn Sumac Special?
A bold, architectural native plant with strong seasonal interest.
- Spring: Yellow-green flower clusters emerge
- Summer: Large tropical-looking foliage creates visual impact
- Fall: Brilliant red-orange foliage with upright red fruit clusters
- Winter: Distinct branching structure with velvety stems
Winter Survival in Ontario and Eastern Canada
Yes, Staghorn Sumac is hardy in Ontario and Eastern Canada Zones 3–7 and tolerates typical Canadian winter conditions including snow load and freezing temperatures.
First-year tip:
- Add 2–3 inches of mulch
- Water deeply before the first hard frost
- Minimal protection needed once established
Planting Guide for Ontario and Eastern Canada
Best planting time:
- Spring (April–June)
- Early fall (September–October)
Spacing:
- 10–15 ft from foundations
- 12–20 ft between plants
Watering (first year):
- Water deeply once per week
- Reduce after establishment
- Adjust based on rainfall and soil conditions
Quick Answers (FAQ)
How fast does Staghorn Sumac grow in Ontario?
Typically 2–3 ft per year in good conditions.
Is it cold hardy in Ontario?
Yes. It is hardy to Zone 3 and thrives across Ontario and Eastern Canada.
Does it need another tree for pollination?
Yes—male and female plants are required for fruit production.
Are the roots invasive?
Yes—it spreads aggressively by suckers; plant 10–15 ft away from structures.
Is it messy?
Can spread and produce fruit clusters; best suited for naturalized areas.
Compare With Similar Trees/Shrubs
| Tree | Growth | Key Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Staghorn Sumac | Fast | Bold fall colour | Naturalization & slopes |
| Fragrant Sumac | Moderate to Slow | Low groundcover | Small slopes & borders |
| Canada Serviceberry | Moderate | Flowers & fruit | Ornamental yards |
Shipping Across Quebec, Ontario and Atlantic Provinces
- Nursery-grown
- Carefully packaged
- Shipped to your door in Quebec, Ontario and Atlantic Provinces
- Healthy root system guarantee
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Sizes of our plants
Sizes of our plants
Our trees and shrubs are sold in two sizes: small (110 ml volume) and large (310 ml volume).
Volume discount
Volume discount
At TreesOnline.ca, the more you buy, the more you save! We offer a volume discount program that benefits our customers who place large orders! To find out the discount you will receive, based on the value of your order, consult the table below.
From $0.00 to $199.99 = 0% discount
From $200.00 to $299.99 = 5% discount
$300.00 and over = 10% discount
Delivery across Canada - Spring 2026
Delivery across Canada - Spring 2026
Delivery available across Canada. Order now and receive your plants in Spring 2026.
Nursery pickup: A flat preparation and packaging fee of $8 will be added to your bill upon pickup. Select the "nursery pickup" option at checkout on our online store.
Quebec and Ontario: Base fee of $23, plus 20% of the plants' value. Add $5 for signature.
All other Canadian provinces: Base fee of $50, plus 20% of the plant value. Add $5 for signature.
Glossary of trees and shrubs of Quebec
Glossary of trees and shrubs of Quebec
Questions about our terminology? Consult our online glossary .
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