Sumac Cycle

 

Beginning with its emergent leaves in the springtime, Staghorn Sumac plays a sustaining role at Halibut Point.

Like all plants that bring forth new generations by seed production, Sumac has developed a season of flowering.

A honeybee approaching Sumac flowers

The tiny fragrant flowers, born in clusters, attract pollinators to accomplish cross-fertilization on behalf of the plant.

A Syrphid fly Eristalis transversa nectaring on Sumac

Many different insects take advantage of the pollination bargain to feed themselves on the nectar produced by the Sumac flowers.

Later in the year Sumac contributes dramatically to the pageantry of fall foliage.

Chickadee with Sumac seed

After the seeds have matured within the flowers birds play a role in eating and dispersing the fruit.

Robin foraging on Sumac berries

In winter a second bargain is under way in the ecology of the landscape where plants and animals take interdependent roles.

Starlings in the Sumac crown

What we see as fuzzy ornaments at the ends of bare branches are vital bundles of nourishment to many species of birds.

Cardinal eating Sumac seeds