Smooth Sumac

(Rhus glabra)

Smooth Sumac (Rhus glabra)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Rhus glabra, commonly known as Smooth Sumac, is a deciduous shrub native to a wide range of habitats including open woodlands, fields, and hillsides across the Eastern USA, parts of the US Intermountain West, and Northern Mexico. It typically grows up to 3 m (9.8 ft) tall with a spreading, open habit. The compound leaves can be quite large and are known for their brilliant scarlet color in the fall. Small, green flowers are produced in dense erect panicles 10–25 cm (4–10 in) tall in the spring, which are not particularly showy but are followed by conspicuous clusters of edible crimson berries persisting into winter. The bark on mature stems is smooth and ranges from grey to brown.

Smooth Sumac is valued for its vibrant fall foliage and its ability to thrive in poor soils. It is often used in naturalized plantings, as a border shrub, or for erosion control due to its suckering habit. This plant is drought-tolerant, preferring full sun to part shade and well-drained soils. While it is low-maintenance, it can spread aggressively via root suckers, which may require management in garden settings. Rhus glabra is potentially invasive outside its native range, so gardeners should consult local guidelines before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 8-15 feet
  • Width: 9-15 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Green, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Fire Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands, fields, and hillsides across the Eastern USA, parts of the US Intermountain West, and Northern Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Smooth Sumach , White Sumac , Vinegar-Bush , Vinegar-Tree , Scarlet Sumac , Scarlet Sumach , Red Sumac , Upland Sumach , Gladde Sumak , Scharlach-Sumach , Korallsumak

Scientific Names: Rhus glabra , Rhus glabra var. cismontana , Rhus borealis , Rhus glabra var. laciniata , Rhus glabra var. occidentalis , Rhus arguta , Rhus angustiarum , Rhus cismontana , Rhus glabra var. glabra , Rhus albida

GBIF Accepted Name: Rhus glabra L.