The Colorful Shrub With Stunning Fall Foliage That Thrives In Dry Soil

If you're the type of gardener who constantly finds themselves having to prioritize the most important things to water in your garden because you can't get to everything, then a plant that thrives on dry soil probably sounds pretty good. Tack on the fact that this plant also offers year-round color that's particularly striking in the fall, and things are starting to appear too good to be true. However, in the case of Tiger Eyes sumac (Rhus typhina 'Bailtiger'), the dwarf shrub is every bit as good as it sounds.

Unlike other varieties of staghorn sumac (Rhus typhina), Tiger Eyes is less aggressive and spreads far slower through suckering, making it a better option for your yard or garden. The deciduous shrub offers year-round visual interest, starting with chartreuse foliage in the spring that fades to warm golden tones in the summer. The leaves change yet again, come fall, into a gorgeous display of vibrant oranges and reds that persist into winter. Female plants will also produce a cluster of fruit in the fall and winter that add to the shrubs overall beauty.

Tiger Eyes sumac is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and thrives in dry soil. The plant can also withstand medium moisture as long as the soil is well draining. To successfully grow the shrub, plant it in an area that receives full sun or partial shade. Tiger Eyes sumac is hardy in zones 4 through 8 and is the kind of plant that will bring timeless beauty to your garden for years.

Planting one yourself is relatively easy. Start by digging a hole that is as deep as the plant's root ball and twice as wide, then gently fill in the hole and give it a good watering. If you're planting multiple shrubs, place them roughly 6 feet apart so they won't interfere with one another once they mature. After the shrubs are fully grown, you can enjoy their lacy, colorful foliage in all of its glory. Between its elegant, drooping leaves and impressive range of color, Tiger Eyes sumac is one of the plants you need in your yard to create a perfect secret garden getaway.