Skunkbush

multiple images of small yellow flowers.

Rhus aromatica

Family: Anacardiaceae – Cashew Family

Shrubs; 1.7' to 8.3' (0.5 to 2.5 m) tall

Leaves: alternate; simple (Rhus aromatica var. simplicifolia), leaves 0.08” to 0.12” (2 to 3 mm) long; or compound with 3 leaflets (Rhus aromatica var. trilobata); leaflets 0.32” to 3.72” (0.8 to 9.3 cm) long, 0.24” to 2.8” (0.6 to 7 cm) wide; leaves 0.08” to 0.12” (2 to 3 mm) long

Flowers: 5 yellowish petals, developing prior to the leaves; 5 sepals; 5 stamens; 3 styles. Polygamous or dioecious. Flowers in compact clusters; 0.08” to 0.12” (2 to 3 mm) long

Pollinators: bees; not self-fertile

Fruits: red or red-orange drupe

Blooms in Arches National Park: March, April, May

Habitat in Arches National Park: dry areas in desert shrub and pinyon-juniper communities

Location seen: park road near visitor center, park road mile 0 to 2.5, Windows, Delicate Arch trail, Fiery Furnace, Tower Arch

Other: The genus name, “Rhus”, is the Greek name for sumac and the species name, “aromatica”, means “aromatic or strong smelling” which refers to the odor of the crushed leaves.

Last updated: January 28, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

PO Box 907
Moab, UT 84532

Phone:

435 719-2299

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