Origin
Rhus ochracea Meikle var. saxicola R. & A.Fern. is a plant species that belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. The plant is endemic to the Jebel Siroua and the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco, North Africa.
Common Names
The plant Rhus ochracea Meikle var. saxicola R. & A.Fern. is commonly known as Yellow Sumac or Mountain Sumac. In Morocco, it is often referred to as "Tarzarkt".
Uses
Yellow Sumac has various uses in traditional herbal medicine and is used to treat various ailments ranging from fever, cough, digestive problems, and as a diuretic. The plant sap can be used to treat skin troubles like rashes and dermatitis. The plant's fruit is also used to produce a tangy spice that is used in cooking and as a seasoning. The plant is also used to make a dye for the wool and leather industry.
General Appearance
Rhus ochracea Meikle var. saxicola R. & A.Fern. is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 3-4 meters tall. The plant has dark green, pinnate leaves that have a length of about 7-12 cm with a serrated margin. The plant's leaves turn yellow in autumn before falling off. The Yellow Sumac plant produces clusters of small, yellow flowers in early summer which later develops into red berries that turn dark purple when they are ripe. The plant prefers to grow in dry and rocky habitats, especially on limestone soils.
Growth Conditions for Rhus ochracea Meikle var. saxicola R. & A.Fern.
Rhus ochracea Meikle var. saxicola R. & A.Fern. is a plant native to the Montenegrin karst region, where it grows in rocky habitats like rock crevices and outcrops. The plant is known for its ability to thrive in harsh environmental conditions, so it is highly adaptable to both dry and low-nutrient soils.
Light Requirements
Rhus ochracea Meikle var. saxicola R. & A.Fern. prefers full sun exposure. The plant can tolerate some degree of shade, but it will not perform well in areas with insufficient sunlight. In optimal growing conditions, the plant will produce foliage with a striking red and orange autumn coloration.
Temperature Requirements
Rhus ochracea Meikle var. saxicola R. & A.Fern. is a hardy plant that can withstand extreme temperatures. However, it prefers a warm, temperate climate with mild winters and hot summers. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 8°C and 25°C.
Soil Requirements
The plant is tolerant of a wide variety of poor soil conditions. However, it prefers dry, shallow, and rocky soils with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. The plant is vulnerable to root rot in waterlogged or excessively moist soils, so well-draining soils are essential. The plant can grow in rocky soil, and it is well suited for xeriscaping, making it a popular choice for sustainable landscaping.
Cultivation Methods
Rhus ochracea Meikle var. saxicola R. & A.Fern., also known as rock sumac, typically grows in rocky habitats in the Levant region. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate hot and dry conditions. If you plan to cultivate it, make sure to choose a location that provides sandy or rocky soil. This plant prefers full sun exposure and does not grow well in shade. It is also recommended to plant it in a raised bed to ensure good drainage. Before planting, make sure to remove all weeds and rocks from the area to prevent competition for nutrients.
Watering Needs
Rock sumac is a drought-tolerant plant that requires minimal watering. After planting, make sure to water it deeply only when the soil is completely dry. During the dry season, when the temperature is high, increase the watering frequency to twice a week. However, ensure not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for rock sumac, as it can survive with minimal nutrients. However, if you want to promote its growth, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer during spring. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers as they can encourage excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning
Rock sumac does not require routine pruning. However, you can prune the plant to encourage branching and maintain its shape. Pruning should be done during winter dormancy, before the new growth appears. Remove all the dead, diseased and damaged branches. You can also cut back one-third of the old growth to promote new growth.
Propagation of Rhus ochracea Meikle var. saxicola R. & A.Fern.
Rhus ochracea Meikle var. saxicola R. & A.Fern. is a shrub that belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. The plant is commonly found in rocky areas and dry slopes in the Mediterranean region of Europe, Africa, and Asia. Propagation of Rhus ochracea Meikle var. saxicola R. & A.Fern. is best done by seed or cutting.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is the most common method used to propagate Rhus ochracea Meikle var. saxicola R. & A.Fern. Collect mature seeds in the autumn when they have turned brown. Soak the seeds in water for a few hours to soften the hard seed coat. Sow the seeds in pots filled with a well-draining potting mix. The seeds should be sown to a depth of 1 to 2 cm. Water regularly after planting.
Seeds should germinate within two to four weeks. Seedlings should be allowed to grow for one or two years before transplanting into larger pots or directly into the field.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cutting is an alternative method for propagating Rhus ochracea Meikle var. saxicola R. & A.Fern. Take hardwood cuttings in the fall when the plant is dormant. Cut a 20 to 25 cm section of a stem, remove leaves from the bottom two-thirds of the cutting, and dip in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining soil mix in containers or a nursery bed. Water after planting and maintain high humidity by covering the cuttings with plastic or a plastic bag.
The cuttings should develop roots after four or five months. Transplant the rooted cuttings to individual pots or directly into the field and maintain the same moisture before transplanting.
Disease Management
Rhus ochracea Meikle var. saxicola R. & A.Fern. is generally a hardy plant but can be affected by a few diseases. The following are some common diseases that can affect this plant and ways to manage them:
- Leaf Rust: This fungal disease causes yellow-orange powdery spots on leaves. To manage, remove affected leaves and destroy them, and apply fungicides.
- Canker: This fungal disease causes wounds or dead spots on the stem. To manage, prune infected branches and use a fungicide.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes small spots on leaves and can eventually lead to leaf drop. To manage, remove infected leaves, and use a fungicide.
Prevention is the best strategy when it comes to disease management. Ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil, watered adequately, and not overcrowded. Proper sanitation practices, such as removing infected plant parts, can also help limit disease spread.
Pest Management
Rhus ochracea Meikle var. saxicola R. & A.Fern. is generally not affected by many pests. The following are some common pests that can affect this plant and ways to manage them:
- Aphids: These small insects suck sap from the leaves, causing the leaves to yellow and curl. To manage, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These pests cause leaves to appear stippled or discolored. To manage, spray the plant with water or use insecticidal soap.
Proper cultural practices such as adequate water and fertilizer can help prevent pest infestations by promoting plant health. For a severe infestation, consider using an insecticide, following the label instructions carefully.
