The staghorn sumac (Rhus typhina) is a fascinating native tree found in the eastern half of North America. Here’s what you need to know about growing and caring for it:

Berries: Sumac berries are high in malic acid and vitamin C. They’re tart and tangy, similar to sour lemon. Use them as a wild substitute for lemon in culinary recipes. They’re great in hummus, salads, pasta, and meat marinades. Cold-infused sumac water creates a beverage similar to pink lemonade.

Medicinal Uses (historically):
Native American tribes used staghorn sumac for various purposes:
Treating diarrhea, fevers, and uterine prolapse.
Enhancing milk flow for nursing mothers.
Using roots as astringents, blood purifiers, diuretics, and emetics.
Infusions to treat venereal diseases and boils.
Description:
Staghorn sumac is a deciduous tree with leaves 1 to 2 inches long, arranged in groups of 13 to 27 narrow, oblong-shaped leaflets.
Its older stems are gray and smooth, while younger twigs are reddish-brown and velvety.
The tree gets its name from the resemblance of its branches to stag antlers.

Sealed zip-lock bag.

Store the dried sumac berries in an airtight container, such as a glass jar or a resealable plastic bag.
Label the container with the date and contents.
Keep it in a cool, dark, and dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Edible Uses:
Young Shoots: The young, peeled shoots from old stumps are edible raw. Springtime tips of old branches are also good.
Berries: Sumac berries are high in malic acid and vitamin C. They’re tart and tangy, similar to sour lemon. Use them as a wild substitute for lemon in culinary recipes. They’re great in hummus, salads, pasta, and meat marinades. Cold-infused sumac water creates a beverage similar to pink lemonade.

Medicinal Uses (historically):
Native American tribes used staghorn sumac for various purposes:
Treating diarrhea, fevers, and uterine prolapse.
Enhancing milk flow for nursing mothers.
Using roots as astringents, blood purifiers, diuretics, and emetics.
Infusions to treat venereal diseases and boils.