Brightening up the day.

Out walking by the Estuary on a grey morning with very poor light the eye inevitably looks for something to bring some cheer to the day.

This Stag's Horn Sumac (Rhus typhina) certainly succeeded in raising the spirits.

It is a large shrub, up to 6m. high which can spread by underground suckering. As can be seen it can provide a splendid display in Autumn.

Why Stag's Horn? We all its branches are covered with fine, soft hairs which resemble the velvet which is found on deer antlers. It originates from North America.