Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina)
Flowering Trees, Bushes and Shrubs of Sleepy Hollow Lake From All-Creatures.org Art and Photo Journals and Galleries Directory

(Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina) - 09a) This is an even closer look at some of the staghorn sumac's flowers and fruit. When we asked Pete about how he makes his tea, and whether or not he picks off the fruit, he responded: "I made some last night, and it didn't seem quite as tart as the stuff I made last year (though definitely still good). I read however, that the seed heads produce more and more malic acid (the same acid that makes apples tart) as they ripen, so they should continue to improve as we continue towards the end of summer. That malic acid is water soluble however, so the flavor eventually washes away with the fall rains. I picked the berries off the seed heads the first time I made it, but now I just drop the seed heads in whole. The woody stem doesn't seem to affect the taste any. After I boil it for a few minutes, I cut the heat and let it sit a bit. Then I dish out the seed heads and filter the "tea" through a coffee filter. You'll probably be surprised by both the tartness and the beautiful color. Have fun with it!
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