NORTH COUNTY’S
#1 TREE SERVICE

ISA Certified Arborists
Serving San Diego Since 1983

African Sumac 

Drought-Tolerant Tree Guide

The African Sumac (Rhus lancea) is a hardy, evergreen tree commonly used in Southern California for shade and wind protection. It adapts well to heat, drought, and poor soil conditions, making it a popular choice for low-maintenance landscapes. Its dense canopy provides good coverage, but it can grow large over time and may require pruning to maintain structure and clearance.

Click here to view our full list of drought-tolerant and drought-resistant trees perfect for a North County San Diego water-wise landscape.

  • African Sumac11
  • African Sumac2
  • African Sumac7
  • African Sumac4
  • African Sumac3
  • African Sumac6

Water Needs

Low to moderate (once established)

Height

20-40 feet

Flowers

Spring | Small, inconspicuous

Exposure

Full sun to partial shade

Canopy Width

25-40 feet

Fruit

Summer–fall | Small reddish berries

Root Behavior

Moderate, spreading roots

Growth Rate

Moderate to fast

Pest & Disease

Generally low issues

Need help with your African Sumac? We’re here to help.

760-745-7871 Free Estimate

Serving North County San Diego Since 1983

We work throughout North County, with experience with mature residential trees, HOA landscapes, and properties near structures, enabling us to provide pruning that improves safety while preserving the tree’s natural form.

ISA Certified Arborists
Paul Rider #WE-1087A & Luke Rider #WE-13812A

Serving Coastal & Inland North County San Diego Since 1983

We work throughout North County, including Encinitas, Carlsbad, Vista, San Marcos, Escondido, Poway, Rancho Penasquitos, and Rancho Bernardo. Our experience with mature residential trees, HOA landscapes, and properties near structures enables us to provide pruning that improves safety while preserving the tree’s natural form.

ISA Certified Arborists
Paul Rider #WE-1087A
Luke Rider #WE-13812A