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A shrub or small tree from 5 to 20 feet, the staghorn sumac is a prevalent and important plant on Burton Island.
The sumac provides a source of shelter and food for many animals here. The staghorn sumac’s umbrella-like canopy furnishes shade to birds in the hot days of summer. It serves as a refuge during rain storms. Birds can easily disappear in the maze of leaves and branches in time of danger. The pink berry-like clusters of blossoms offer food for birds. Later, the fruits become dry and they may persist for a year or so providing an emergency food for squirrels and birds. The deer and cottontail rabbit find the twigs and bark a most acceptable meal during the winter. In former years, the sumac was often used for tanning fine leathers and as a dye because of high content of tannic acid.
Staghorn Sumac