Description

This is Canada’s largest sumac species, reaching heights of 5 meters (16′) and spreading 6 meters (20′). It is a beautiful shrub or small tree with pinnate compound leaves. Plants are either male or female (dioecious). The red fruiting clusters resemble antlers in velvet which gives it its common name. The fruit can be used to make a pink lemonade type drink or jelly. Its tart lemon flavour helps take out gaminess of wild meats. Some bee keepers use it in their smokers and all above ground parts can be used as a dye plant and as a mordant due to the high tannin levels which improve colour fastness.