Summary: Rhus coriaria (Sicilian Sumac) is a plant in the Anacardiaceae family. Verdica documents 15 traditional uses, 12 phytochemical compounds, and 22 herb-drug interactions for this species.
Sicilian Sumac (R. coriaria) immature fruits are a caper substitute. The crushed fruit, mixed with Origanum syriacum, is a principal ingredient of 'Zatar', a popular spice mixture in the Middle East with a tangy, lemony flavour. The seed is an appetiser, similar to mustard. Sicilian Sumac is native to Macaronesia, Medit. to Afghanistan, including Algeria, Azores, Canary Is., Cyprus, France, Greece, Iran, Iraq, Italy, Madeira, Morocco, Portugal, Sicilia, Spain, and Turkey. Rhus species are hardy, drought-tolerant shrubs or small trees that thrive in dry, hot environments. They tolerate poor, rocky, and well-drained soils and do well in alkaline or slightly acidic soils. Once established, most Rhus species are highly drought-tolerant; they like full sun but tolerate partial shade. Rhus species are excellent for attracting wildlife, including birds drawn to the bright red berries. They also support many pollinators and provide animal habitat.
| Sunlight | Full sun |
| Watering | Moderate — keep soil moist |
| Soil | Well-drained, acidic |
| Hardiness Zone | USDA 8-11 |
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