Day 56: A leaf study, showcasing two of the 5 compound leaves that have emerged from the fully extended bud scales. The drawing illustrates how much the leaves grow in a relatively short timeframe; in this case, only 19 days.
Smooth sumac leaves, 7.5×8 inches, graphite
Leafy stem update
I’ve concluded it is too late to try and plant the leaf-topped stem, as there’s no sign of root growth. So today, I revisited the sumac patch and collected another “still dormant” stem that will be planted directly in garden soil. Time will tell!
For another update, read Winter Botany Study, Part 4
a curious nature 
Expert use of graphite on this one, Barb!!!!! Sorry it didn’t have enough oomph to produce BOTH compound leaves AND roots. But what a wonderful study it provided!. I’m “rooting” for your new cutting!
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Wow, thank you Robin! And I’m also “rooting” for the new stem!
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Excellent work, 😍
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Thank you so much, Aga!
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Sumac came up in a Google search I did yesterday grouped with poison oak and ivy in relation to my initial inquiry on philodendron. What instigated the search was a rash I’ve developed on the inside of both arms. I cut back one of my philodendrons and it turns out the sap that oozed from the cuts can (and in my case does) cause an itchy rash. Went to the doc today to confirm and got meds to treat. Fortunately, the rash is limited, phew!
As I read your blog on smooth sumac, knowing there are numerous sumac species, I wondered if it had the properties to cause a rash. As you’re probably aware, the answer is no. However, I did find this interesting article from CU Colorado that also talks about some of the medicinal and edible uses by Native Americans. Thought you’d like the article if you haven’t already read it:
https://www.colorado.edu/asmagazine/2020/01/07/smooth-sumac-has-edible-berries-and-poisonous-medicinal-leaves.
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So sorry to hear about the rash! Ouch! And thanks for the link. I’ll check it out!
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Ooh, this is interesting. Thanks for sharing!
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Thank you very much for your comment!
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