10 Seeds Smooth Sumac Rhus glabra Native Shrub

Smooth Sumac (Rhus glabra) is a native North American deciduous shrub or small tree admired for its bold tropical-looking pinnate foliage that turns brilliant red and orange in autumn, plus its velvety crimson clusters of fruit that persist through winter and its striking architectural form in the landscape. It is a vigorous, adaptable species that naturalizes readily, making it a favorite for native plant gardens, wildlife plantings, windbreaks, and low-maintenance meadow and roadside settings.

Smooth Sumac works beautifully as a backdrop shrub, in mass plantings, hedgerows, and naturalized areas where its seasonal color and winter silhouette can be appreciated. The bright red berry clusters can be used to make a tart lemonade-like beverage, while the dried fruit heads add ornamental interest in arrangements. It spreads by suckering to form colonies, so give it room to naturalize or contain the roots if a clumping habit is not desired.

Species: Rhus glabra
Type: Deciduous shrub or small tree
Plant Habit: Upright, colonizing, suckering
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Well-drained, tolerates poor and rocky soils
Zones: 3-9
Germination: Cold stratify 60-90 days, then surface sow and lightly cover
Sowing: Sow in fall or stratify indoors then start in spring
Spacing: 6-10 feet apart
Notes: Berries persist into winter and provide food for birds