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Rhus aromatica (Fragrant Sumac)

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description Rhus aromatica (Fragrant Sumac) Overview

Rhus aromatica, known as fragrant sumac, is a low-growing deciduous shrub native to central and eastern North America. Its aromatic leaves and stems release a spicy scent when crushed, while small yellow flowers appear in spring and are followed by red, hairy fruits on female plants. The foliage commonly turns orange, scarlet, or red in autumn, and the shrub is used in naturalistic plantings, hedges, and wildlife gardens.

help Rhus aromatica (Fragrant Sumac) FAQ

Where is Rhus aromatica native, and what is it commonly called?

Rhus aromatica is native to central and eastern North America. Its common name is fragrant sumac, referring to the spicy scent released when its leaves or stems are crushed.

Does fragrant sumac produce berries?

Female plants produce small red, hairy fruits after the spring flowers fade. Male and female flowers occur on separate plants, so fruiting depends on having a female plant.

Is Rhus aromatica evergreen in winter?

No. Fragrant sumac is a deciduous shrub, so it drops its leaves in autumn and regrows them in spring.

Why do people notice the smell of fragrant sumac?

Its leaves and young stems contain aromatic compounds that release a spicy scent when crushed. The smell is one of the easiest ways to distinguish it from many other low-growing sumacs.

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