Rhus aromatica

fragrant sumac

Fragrant sumac is named for the spicy citrus fragrance, evident when the leaves are bruised. This shrub will form a low colony and grows in dreadful soils that other plants would find intolerable. The fall color is a vibrant red to orange, and birds flock to the clusters of red, fuzzy berries.

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Height: 3-7 ft
Spread: 4-6 ft
Hardiness Zone: 4-9


Bloom Color: Insignificant

Characteristics & Attributes

Cultivation Status
• Species
Exposure
• Sun
• Part Shade
Soil Moisture
• Average
• Dry
Ecoregion
• (59) Northeastern Coastal Zone
• (83) Eastern Great Lakes Lowlands
• (58) Northeastern Highlands
Ornamental Interest
• Summer Fruit
• Fall Foliage
Attracts Wildlife
• Attracts Songbirds
• Attracts Bees
• Host Plant
• Other Pollinators/Wildlife
Tolerance
• Drought Tolerant
• Urban Environment
• Deer/Rabbit Resistant
• Salt Tolerant
Additional Attributes
• Fragrant
• Erosion Control/Soil Stabilization
• Dioecious (fruits only on female plants)
• Low Maintenance
Landscape Use
• Groundcover
• Rain Garden
• Massing
• Naturalize
• Hedge/screening
Attractive Fall Foliage and/or Ornamental Fruit
• Red Fruit
• Red to Purple Fall Foliage
Growth Habit
• Spreading/Suckering


North American Distribution


fragrant sumac - Rhus aromatica from Native Plant Trust
fragrant sumac - Rhus aromatica from Native Plant Trust
fragrant sumac - Rhus aromatica from Native Plant Trust