Story and Photos by Andrea Dee
A rich, golden-leafed form of cutleaf stag horn sumac makes a bold statement in the landscape. Its upright branching form shows off draping deeply serrated chartreuse to yellow foliage and contrasting rose-hued stems.
As if that isn’t dramatic enough, the foliage flames orange to red during the fall before defoliating. The show doesn’t stop during the winter; the smooth branches add a unique winter display.
Easily used as a showy specimen or in mass plantings, it thrives in both commercial and traditional garden settings. For an even better show, pair with plants such as purple-leafed Black Lace elderberry (Sambucus nigra ‘Eva’), smokebush (Cotinus coggygria), and ninebark (Physocarpus spp.).
Quick Facts and Keys to Success
Common Name: Tiger Eyes sumac
Botanical Name: Rhus typhina ‘Bailtiger’
USDA Hardiness Zone(s): 4-8
Color: Chartreuse to golden foliage
Type: Large ornamental specimen shrub
Mature Size: 6 feet in height, 6 feet in spread
Exposure: Full sun
When to Plant: Spring or fall
How to Plant: Dig planting hole at least twice as wide as root ball. Plant only as deep as root ball.
Soil: Adaptable to poorly drained and very dry soils.
Watering: 1 inch per week of rainfall or irrigation recommended.
When to Prune: Prune as necessary to develop desired branching.
When to Fertilize: Apply slow-release fertilizer in the fall.
In Your Landscape: Unique large specimen shrub favored for its exotic texture and golden chartreuse foliage.