Sumac galls offer proof of an ancient association
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Sumac galls offer proof of an ancient association

With the onset of late summer’s cooler nighttime temperatures and shorter days, staghorn sumacs (Rhus typhina) are among the first leafy plants to lose chlorophyll from their cells. The breakdown of this pigment triggers the transition from green foliage to yellow, orange, and red, often starting as early as mid-August. After a striking autumnal display, their rich red to burgundy-colored fruit clusters remain all winter. 

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