Rhus ovata Sugar bush (Anacardiaceae) Evergreen shrub

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Rhus ovata
Sugar bush
Evergreen shrub
(1 Page of 5)

The Rhus ovata plant species is found in Southwestern N. America - California, Arizona and Mexico. It is a member of the Anacardiaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Sugar bush.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Rhus ovata
Common Name:  Sugar bush
Family:  Anacardiaceae
Author:  S.Wats.

Known Hazards:  There are some suggestions that the sap of this species can cause a skin rash in susceptible people, but this has not been substantiated. See also notes in 'Cultivation Details'.

Mature Height:  2   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Dry rocky slopes below 800 metres, usually away from the coast, in California[71, 229].

General Uses: The leaves are rich in tannin. They can be collected as they fall in the autumn and used as a brown dye or as a mordant[169]. An oil is extracted from the seeds[4]. It attains a tallow-like consistency on standing and is used to make candles. These burn brilliantly, though they emit a pungent smoke[4]. Often planted in poor dry soils in America, where its extensive root system helps to prevent erosion[229].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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