Rhus typhina ‘Dissecta’ – Elegant Fern-Leaf Sumach with Striking Autumn Colour

The Rhus typhina ‘Dissecta’, also known as the Fern-Leaf Sumach, is a highly decorative deciduous shrub or small tree that brings bold foliage and dazzling autumn colour to the garden. A more refined form of the Stag’s Horn Sumach, ‘Dissecta’ is named for its finely cut, fern-like leaves that add a delicate texture through spring and summer.

In autumn, the foliage transforms into fiery shades of scarlet, orange, and gold, creating one of the most spectacular seasonal displays of any shrub. Its architectural form and vibrant colouring make it a standout feature for mixed borders, wildlife gardens, or as a specimen plant in lawns and larger spaces.

General Information

Rhus typhina is native to North America and is prized for its ornamental value. The cultivar ‘Dissecta’ is particularly popular for its finely divided foliage and smaller size compared to the species.

• Habit: Deciduous shrub or small tree with an open, spreading crown.

• Height & spread: Typically 3–5m tall with a similar spread, though can be kept smaller with pruning.

• Foliage: Deeply cut, fern-like leaves up to 60cm long; lush green in summer, turning vivid red, orange, and yellow in autumn.

• Flowers: Small greenish-yellow flowers in early summer; female plants may produce dense clusters of red, velvety fruit (drupes).

• Bark: Stems are covered in a soft, hairy texture resembling stag’s horns.

• Position: Prefers full sun for the best foliage colour, though it will tolerate partial shade.

• Soil: Grows well in most soils, including poor and sandy conditions, provided they are well-drained.

• Hardiness: Fully hardy across the UK and Ireland.

• Uses: Excellent as a specimen shrub/tree, in wildlife-friendly gardens, or for dramatic autumn displays.

Its unique combination of texture, colour, and form ensures year-round interest, with the fiery autumn display being its greatest highlight.

Care Guide

Rhus typhina ‘Dissecta’ is a hardy, low-maintenance plant that thrives in most gardens but benefits from careful siting and occasional attention.

Planting

• When to plant: Best in autumn or spring when the soil is moist and workable.

• Depth & spacing: Plant at the same depth as in the pot; allow 2–3m spacing for mature spread.

• Preparation: Enrich poor soils with compost, but this shrub also thrives in lean conditions.

Watering & Feeding

• Water well after planting and during the first season to establish roots.

• Once mature, it is very drought-tolerant and requires little supplemental watering.

• Feeding is rarely necessary; too much fertiliser encourages excessive suckering.

Pruning & Maintenance

• Minimal pruning is required – simply remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter.

• Prune to shape if desired, but avoid hard pruning into old wood.

• Be aware that like other sumachs, it can produce suckers (new shoots from the base or roots). These should be removed promptly if you wish to keep growth contained.

Protection

• Fully hardy and resilient in most conditions.

• Shelter from strong winds where possible to prevent damage to the fine foliage.

• Avoid planting in very wet or waterlogged soils.

Why Choose Rhus typhina ‘Dissecta’?

This ornamental shrub/tree is prized for its spectacular seasonal colour and delicate foliage.

• Striking autumn colour: Brilliant shades of scarlet, orange, and gold.

• Fern-like foliage: Finely divided leaves add texture and elegance.

• Low-maintenance: Hardy, drought-tolerant, and adaptable to many soils.

• Architectural form: Distinctive shape makes a great specimen plant.

• Wildlife value: Flowers attract pollinators, and fruit clusters are loved by birds.

The Rhus typhina ‘Dissecta’ is an excellent choice for gardeners wanting to add drama, texture, and spectacular seasonal colour. Whether planted as a lawn specimen, part of a mixed border, or in a wildlife-friendly garden, it will reward you with unforgettable autumn displays and easy-care charm.

• Size
  5 Litre

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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