Fragrant Sumac 100 Seeds Rhus aromatica USA Company

Rhus aromatica, commonly known as fragrant sumac, is a deciduous shrub native to North America. Here are some key characteristics and information about Rhus aromatica:

Appearance: Fragrant sumac is a low-growing shrub that typically reaches a height of 2 to 6 feet. It has spreading branches with trifoliate leaves, meaning each leaf is divided into three leaflets. The leaves are aromatic when crushed, giving the plant its common name.

Leaves: The leaves are usually green in the spring and summer, turning to shades of red, orange, and purple in the fall. The leaves are aromatic, emitting a pleasant fragrance when touched or crushed.

Flowers: Fragrant sumac produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are yellowish-green in color. The flowers bloom in dense clusters in early spring before the leaves fully emerge.

Fruit: Female plants produce clusters of red, hairy, berry-like drupes in late summer and fall. These fruits are a characteristic feature and persist through the winter.

Habitat: Fragrant sumac is adaptable to various soil types and is often found in open woodlands, rocky slopes, and along roadsides. It is drought-tolerant and can thrive in challenging growing conditions.

Landscaping: Due to its low-growing and spreading nature, fragrant sumac is sometimes used in landscaping for erosion control, as ground cover, or in naturalized areas. It can be planted for its ornamental qualities, especially in regions with poor or dry soils.

Wildlife: The fruits of fragrant sumac are a food source for various birds and wildlife. Additionally, the dense growth habit of the shrub provides cover and habitat for small animals.

Cultural Uses: Native American tribes have historically used fragrant sumac for various purposes. For example, some tribes used the aromatic leaves for smoking mixtures, and the plant's bark was used for medicinal purposes.

Caution: While fragrant sumac has ornamental and ecological value, it's important to note that it is not to be confused with poison sumac (Toxicodendron vernix), which is a separate species and can cause skin irritation in some people.

Fragrant sumac is appreciated for its hardiness, adaptability, and its ability to add color and interest to landscapes throughout the seasons. When considering its use in landscaping, it's advisable to choose native plants that are well-suited to the local ecosystem.