Punjabensis Sumac (Rhus punjabensis)

Family: Anacardiaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Rhus punjabensis is a deciduous Tree growing to 12 m (39ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in June. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is not self-fertile.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

refreshing lemonade-like drink (without any fizz of course). — Fruit - raw or cooked.; The fruit is small with very little flesh, but it is produced in fairly large panicles and so is easily harvested.; When soaked for 10 - 30 minutes in hot or cold water it makes a very refreshing lemonade-like drink (without any fizz of course).; The mixture should not be boiled since this will release tannic acids and make the drink astringent.

Habitat & North American Range

Thickets and woodland margins in W. China. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)