Società semplice Antica Sommaccheria
SOMMACCO - SUMAC-SUMAK-SUMACH-ZUMAQUE- سماق - сумах - 盐肤木 - スーマック - 수마크
Tidbits of Sumac History
Tidbits of Sumac History
THE DIDATIC FARM OF SUMAC
The Didactic Farm of Sumac was established in Termini Imerese, in the province of Palermo, within a true natural paradise of 4000 square meters at the foot of Mount San Calogero. Here, sumac grows spontaneously—a plant belonging to the Rhus coriaria and Rhus glabra family, characterized by red panicles and little known today due to its lack of widespread cultivation.
This enchanting place, open for visits, is nestled in a unique natural setting surrounded by agave plants, olive trees, almond trees, nepetella, and disa. From here, you can admire the sea, which always displays three shades of color: green, azure, and deep blue. In summer, the area enjoys a wonderful breeze, with high temperatures mitigated by the influence of the sea and the mountain, making the climate pleasant and never oppressive.
For years, we have been observing and studying sumac, a plant of great botanical and cultural value. We have analyzed the differences between male and female specimens, noting that its panicles bloom in spring: in the female plant, they turn into berries by June, while in the male plant, they crumble to facilitate pollination. We have performed targeted pruning to harvest the berries, and over the years, sumac has thrived.
We are evaluating the best methods for its propagation and have found that reproduction through suckers is more effective than through seeds or cuttings. Additionally, we study the ideal time for leaf harvesting, as they are used in tanning and natural fabric dyeing, as well as for teas and products with anti-inflammatory and cosmetic properties. Our production strictly follows organic farming principles, making full use of the plant—from roots to wood, leaves, berries, and seeds.
One of our main goals is to introduce sumac to children and families through our didactic farm. We want to engage new generations in the preservation of this precious plant and help them understand its extraordinary properties. Sumac is the most polyphenol-rich plant in the plant kingdom and is particularly high in malic acid, making it a powerful natural antibacterial agent.
During our educational activities, we show students what anthocyanins, tannins, and water-soluble polyphenols are, presenting scientific knowledge in an interactive and engaging way. Additionally, on our land, there is an old structure subject to landscape protection regulations, which we plan to renovate while fully respecting the history and traditions of the area.
We are working to make visiting the farm accessible and enjoyable for everyone while also respecting the presence of a special resident—a large black snake that reminds us every year that this land is also its home!
We look forward to welcoming you to discover the wonders of the Didactic Farm of Sumac!
Società semplice Antica Sommaccheria
SOMMACCO - SUMAC-SUMAK-SUMACH-ZUMAQUE- سماق - сумах - 盐肤木 - スーマック - 수마크