Rhus glabra

Also Known As

Smooth Sumac

Plant type

tree, shrub, fruit / vegetable

size

H: 8'-20'
W: 8'-20'

planting zones

3a-9b

More Options

Rhus glabra plant details

Rhus glabra is a broadleaf deciduous fruit / vegetable, shrub or tree with green foliage. In spring and summer chartreuse, cream and white flowers emerge followed by red fruit. Grows well with sun - mostly sun and regular water. Does well in average and well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Rhus glabra

Plant type: fruit / vegetable, shrub or tree
Plant family: anacardiaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 8 FT - 20 FT - wide, 8 FT - 20 FT - tall
Flowers: chartreuse, cream and white blooms in spring and summer
Uses: border plant, edible, fall color, fragrant, native plant

GROWING CONDITIONS for Rhus glabra

USDA Zones: 3a - 9b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: regular

Soil needs: average and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

A first class plant, this interesting 10-15' U.S. native shrub has large, compound pinnate, tropical-looking leaves which turn a glowing bright-red in fall, ornate, yellow-green flowers in early summer become (on female plants) large showy clusters of reddish, hairy, berry-like fruits much enjoyed by wildlife; very adaptable, it will spread to hold soil and form a thicket; needs a male and female for fruit, ours are unsexed seedlings. S/M-D

By: Forestfarm

Sumac is a dried berry that has a sour taste and a high vitamin C content. It’s used a lot in Mediterranean cuisine and throughout the Middle East as a garnish to give food a sour flavor. Sumac is delicious on everything from kebabs to cooked whole grains. Even though it’s used in other parts of the world, sumac grows wild throughout North America. In August through September, the berries appear like bright red cones on the lemon-scented leaves of this shrub. After you pick the berries, crush them lightly and use them fresh, or dry them and store in an airtight container.