Common Name(s): African Sumac, Karee

Synonym(s):

Family: Anacardiaceae

Native To: Southern Africa

Native Habitat: Arid regions

Growth Habit: Large spreading evergreen tree

Flowering: Small greenish white flowers

Distinguishing Characteristics: This slow growing tree reaches heights of 15 to 30 feet with an equal or greater spread. The canopy of this evergreen is very dense when young, thinning somewhat when more mature. Although this tree is not deciduous, it does loose a great amount of leaves each year, more so in the hot summers. This tree is typically multi-trunked and produces a high number of branches that grow in every direction. There are fissures in the dark gray trunk which reveal an orange mahogany color beneath. The palmately compound leaves form in groups of 3 with leaflets that are 2 to 3 inches long. The leaves are shiny and dark green. The small flowers are whitish-green and give way to yellow or red berrylike fruit that grows in clusters. The fruit contains small black seeds with a paper like coating.

Natural History and Cultivation Notes: The genus name is derived from rhous, the ancient Greek word for sumac. The species name of lancea refers to the lance shaped leaves. This tree is also commonly known as Karee in Africa.

Ethnobotany: This plant is used primarily as a shade tree and an ornamental. It is quite popular on golf courses.

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