Sugar Bush (Rhus ovata)

Sugar Bush

The resilient sugar Bush is often one of the few structures left standing after a fire. These bushes are very drought tolerant (at least after the first year) and flourish with only occasional rainfall. The sugar Bush grows naturally in canyons and chaparral and has aromatic foliage and red fruit.

Scientific classification

Species

Sugar Bush (Rhus ovata)

Maples, mangos, mahogany, citrus, and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

2 m to 10 m

Plant Height

1.2 m to 3 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

White, Pink

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Sugar Bush

Attributes of Sugar Bush

Growth Rate

During the active growth seasons of Spring and Summer, sugar Bush exhibits a moderate rate of growth. This influences a consistent, balanced development of its foliage and an ensuing incremental increase in height. The moderate pace allows for sufficient energy distribution to flowering, ensuring blossoms in the Summer season. Sugar Bush might, however, show lesser growth intensity during non-specified seasons.

Distribution of Sugar Bush

Distribution Map

Sugar Bush is originally native to the southwestern region of North America. This plant, adapted to arid and Mediterranean-type climates, has spread beyond its native range and is now cultivated in various suitable climates. Its ability to withstand drought conditions has facilitated its introduction to similar habitats in other regions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Slopes, mesas, chaparral, 3000-5000 ft

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Toxicity

The sugar Bush plant's sap may cause skin irritation in allergic individuals. Handling the plant carefully and using protective clothing is advised due to potential exposure to urushiol, which can cause redness, rash, blisters, and a burning sensation.

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Quickly Identify Sugar Bush

Evergreen shrub reaching 8-12 feet (2.4-3.7 meters) with stout trunks and spreading branches.

Glossy dark green leaves with smooth edges, folded slightly at the midrib, often with a maroon to pink tint.

Clustered small flowers at branch tips in March to May, white to rose-pink with dark reddish bracts.

Fruit is a reddish-brown down-covered drupe with a hard stone about 1/4 inch (6 mm) in size.

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Care Guide for Sugar Bush

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Adapted to arid climates, sugar Bush thrives with high drought tolerance, needing water every 2-3 weeks. Its evergreen nature and waxy leaf coating enhance moisture retention, reducing transpiration and enabling efficient moisture conservation, making it suitable for outdoor growth.

Fertilize: For sugar Bush, apply balanced nutrition fertilizers once in spring to support growth and resilience. Use a light dose as sugar Bush thrives in low-fertility soils. Water well post-fertilization to prevent root burn, reducing feedings during dormancy to maintain natural vigor.

Pruning: Sugar Bush is a drought-tolerant evergreen shrub that thrives with annual pruning in late spring post-blooming. Prune to promote air circulation, reduce disease risk, and maintain shape, using clean tools just above leaf nodes. Avoid heavy pruning to keep its natural appearance.

Propagation: Sugar Bush is a hardy shrub from dry areas, valued for its evergreen leaves. Propagate by sowing fresh seeds in well-draining soil, at a depth relative to seed size. Maintain moisture without oversaturation; expect slow germination and protect seedlings from extreme conditions.

Repotting: For optimal growth, sugar Bush requires excellent drainage in pots to prevent waterlogging and root rot, ensuring healthy development.

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