Fragrant Sumac

Scientific name

Rhus aromatica

Description

The Fragrant Sumac is a medium-sized deciduous shrub within the Cashew family. This species grows between 1-2 meters in height, is multi-stemmed, and produces a round, dense crown composed of erect and spreading branches. Between March and April, small yellow flower clusters bloom on the terminal ends of the branches prior to leaf development. Fruit development begins during late summer. Small, red, hairy berries are produced and can remain on the plant throughout the winter. Male catkins develop on the plant in September. Fragrant Sumac leaves are simple and arranged alternately along the branch. Leaves produced are simple and trifoliate with a large center lobe, appearing similar to Poison Ivy. During the spring and summer, the leaves are light green to green-yellow in colour turning a bright yellow to red or dark purple in autumn. Crushed leaves and stems of the Fragrant Sumac produce a fragrant citrus aroma, hence the common name. The aroma of this shrub is attractive to butterfly species, making it the perfect addition to any butterfly garden. The roots of the Fragrant Sumac are shallow, fibrous, and spread rapidly, making it an ideal choice for stabilizing shorelines and mitigating erosion on steep slopes. Unlike other Sumac species, Fragrant Sumac is significantly less aggressive and easily maintained.

Planting conditions

Plant in full sun to partial shade. Adapted to a variety of soil types but well drained conditions. This species is moderately drought tolerant.

Details

• Plant height:
  • Max 2m
  • Max 3m
  • Any
• Moisture level:
  • Dry
  • Normal
  • Moist
  • Drought Tolerant
• Light conditions:
  • Full sun
  • Partial sun
• Soil type:
  • Sandy
  • Loamy
  • Clay
  • Rocky
• pH:
  • Normal
• Depth:
  • Potted
  • Bareroot
• Eco Zone:
  • 5a
  • 5b
  • 6a
  • 6b
  • 7a
  • 7b
• Plant type:
  • Shrub
• Height:
  • 1-2m
• Spread:
  • 1.5-3m