Rhus typhina ‘Tiger Eyes’ – A Dazzling Foliage Showpiece
Rhus typhina ‘Tiger Eyes’ is an exceptional, deciduous shrub or small tree (H 2–3 m) prized for its finely dissected, fern-like foliage and ever-changing colours. Emerging in spring as bright chartreuse-green, the leaves quickly turn golden-yellow, glowing against the summer sun. By autumn, the foliage explodes into fiery shades of orange, scarlet, and red, creating a spectacular display. With its compact, upright habit and architectural branching, ‘Tiger Eyes’ is a more restrained and garden-friendly form of the stag’s horn sumach. Hardy (H6) and adaptable to poor or dry soils, it brings drama, structure, and long-lasting colour to both traditional and modern gardens.
Seasonal Beauty & Growth
Spring:
Summer:
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Foliage turns bright golden-yellow, lighting up borders and focal points.
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Red, cone-like fruit clusters may develop, loved by wildlife.
Autumn:
Winter:
Structure & Form
Height & Spread: Typically 2–3 m tall and wide.
Form: Upright, branching habit with open crown.
Foliage: Finely cut, lace-like leaves in changing shades of green, yellow, and red.
Growth Habit: Compact, slower-growing, less vigorous and less suckering than common sumach.
Perfect for Various Landscapes
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Specimen Tree: Ideal focal point for small and medium gardens.
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Borders & Mixed Planting: Combines beautifully with grasses, perennials, and late-flowering shrubs.
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Wildlife Gardens: Flowers and fruits attract pollinators and birds.
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Modern & Traditional Gardens: Architectural form suits both naturalistic and designed settings.
Growing Conditions & Care
Position: Full sun for the strongest foliage colours.
Soil: Well-drained, tolerates poor, sandy, or dry soils.
Maintenance: Low-maintenance; prune lightly to shape in winter. Far less suckering than other Rhus types.
Hardiness: Fully hardy (H6) in the UK.
Why Choose Rhus typhina ‘Tiger Eyes’?
Compact, colourful, and striking across the seasons, ‘Tiger Eyes’ is a refined version of the stag’s horn sumach. Its finely cut, luminous foliage and fiery autumn display make it a standout feature in any landscape, bringing drama and elegance without the invasiveness of its relatives.