Rhus sp.
Family: Anacardiaceae · Type: Shrub · Variable; species dependent
Rhus sp. is a non-native California shrub in the Anacardiaceae family.
How to tell it apart
vs Malosma: Malosma has simple undivided leaves; Rhus has compound leaves divided into 9+ leaflets.; vs Toxicodendron: Toxicodendron leaflets are shiny-glossy on top; Rhus leaflets are dull and flat-looking.; vs Heteromeles: Heteromeles has simple toothed leaves and smooth red berries; Rhus has compound leaves and fuzzy clustered fruits.; vs Rhamnus: Rhamnus has simple leaves and smooth berries; Rhus has compound leaves and fuzzy red berry clusters.; vs Quercus: Quercus has simple lobed leaves; Rhus has compound leaves divided into multiple leaflets.
Frequently asked questions
Is Rhus sp. native to California?
No. Rhus sp. is not native to California (recorded as variable; species dependent).
What plant family does Rhus sp. belong to?
Rhus sp. is in the Anacardiaceae family, genus Rhus.
Related species
Other California species in the same genus, family, or bioregion.
Sources: Jepson eFlora · CalPhotos
Last updated 2026-04-14
Data from The California Species Project — 14,000+ California species with verified data from CNPS, CDFW, USFWS, Cal-IPC, and more.