African Sumac Sudden Decline: Get an On-Site Expert Evaluation

Symptoms Suggest a Complex Problem

Wilting, sticky new shoots, overnight leaf death, and sap oozing at branch junctions on multiple African sumacs—with no visible insects—point to a vascular or root issue that’s difficult to diagnose remotely.

Best Course of Action

Contact your county Agricultural Extension office (usually located in the county seat) and request a “house call.” Extension agents provide free, unbiased, on-site assessments and can send samples to a diagnostic lab if needed. This is far more reliable than guesswork or trial-and-error product applications.