Rhus aromatica var. serotina, commonly known as Fragrant Sumac, Late Fragrant Sumac, or Southern Aromatic Sumac, is a deciduous perennial shrub. It is native to rocky bluffs, upland prairies, and open woodlands in Central North America. This shrub typically grows at a moderate rate to a height of 2-6 feet (0.6-1.8 meters) and spreads 6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters) wide. It features trifoliate leaves that turn orange, red, or purple in the fall, adding seasonal interest to the landscape. The small yellow flowers bloom in early spring before the leaves emerge and are followed by red, hairy berries that persist into winter and attract wildlife.

Fragrant Sumac is valued for its aromatic foliage when crushed, its vibrant fall color, and its adaptability to various soil types, including clay, loam, or sandy soils. It is drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping and naturalized areas. It is often used for erosion control on slopes, as a ground cover, or in mass plantings. This shrub thrives in full sun to part shade and requires well-drained soil. While generally low-maintenance, it can spread by root suckers to form colonies, which should be managed in smaller gardens.CC BY-SA 4.0