Rhus typhina First Editions® Tiger Eyes® – Staghorn Sumac – 3-Gallon

This 2004 release from Minnesota’s Bailey Nurseries is a big departure from the typical staghorn sumac. Arising as a sport of Cutleaf Staghorn Sumac (‘Dissecta’ or ‘Laciniata’), it’s a dwarf, slow-spreading form with golden leaves. New growth starts out a vivid chartreuse with reddish veins, but soon changes to a bright yellow. It remains that color throughout the growing season, without burning even in full sun. In autumn the plants turn a brilliant scarlet-orange layered over the yellow, for an impressive, luminous show. It can be used as a specimen plant, integrated with other shrubs in the middle of the border, or used in mass plantings. Its bold architectural quality makes it an interesting focal point, yet it can also be used as a transitional shrub between the cultivated landscape and unmanaged areas.