Care of the shrub Rhus integrifolia or Lemonade berry |
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The genus Rhus, family Anacardiaceae, comprises 250 of shrubs and trees native to subtropical and temperate regions of all continents. Some species are: Rhus integrifolia, Rhus standleyi, Rhus typhina, Rhus dentata, Rhus undulata, Rhus coriaria, Rhus aromatica, Rhus glabra. Common names: Lemonade sumac, Lemonade berry, Lemonadeberry. This species is native to California and Baja california. They are shrubs or aromatic evergreen trees that reach 3 meters (9.84 feet) in height. They have leathery leaves with serrated edges and a waxy texture on the surface of an intense green color. The flowers are pink but quite small. They bloom in spring. The red berries are decorative and can be used to prepare a drink similar to lemonade. They are used to fix dry and sunny slopes, in bushy groups and to form hedges. They are ideal plants for Mediterranean coastal gardens. They go well with Yucca, cacti and succulents. Rhus integrifolia grows in full sun or light shade exposure. They resist the Mediterranean summer and frosts down to -6 ºC (21.2 ºF). These shrubs can grow in any type of soil that is well drained. They are so resistant to drought that once established they do not need additional watering even in summer. In case of carrying out these irrigations, you always have to wait until the soil is dry. They do not need fertilizers. They tolerate pruning to maintain a compact bearing in any season of the year. They are very resistant plants to the usual pests and diseases. They are propagated from seeds sown in spring previously soaked in hot water for 6-8 hours. |
Images of the shrub Rhus integrifolia or Lemonade berry |
 Rhus integrifolia  Rhus integrifolia |