America in the wind

DAY 82 (26 JUNE) – Staghorn sumac (Rhus typhina) (Farnham)

Strange to find that this tree clattering crazily in the wind outside our local library is native to North America. Also known as Virginia sumac, it’s most commonly found in south east Canada, the Appalachian Mountains and other parts of eastern North America.

The fruits (which appear later in the year) can be used to make pink lemonade. The leaves and berries mixed with tobacco and other herbs have traditionally been smoked by native American tribes.