Native Plant Trust

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