Cool Creek Seedlings
Smooth Sumac (Rhus glabra)
Description
Latin Name: Rhus glabra
Common Name: Shining Sumac, Sweet Sumac, Lacquer Tree
Zone: 3-9
Mature Height: Smooth sumac generally reaches a height of 6 to 15 feet. It has a moderate growth rate, typically growing about 1 to 2 feet per year in ideal conditions. Factors like soil quality, moisture, and sunlight can affect this growth rate, so providing optimal conditions will promote its health. If you decide to plant it, expect it to reach its mature height within a few years.
Soil/ Climate: Smooth sumac thrives in full sun to partial shade and adapts well to different soil types. It is commonly found in open woods, fields, and along roadsides. This plant is generally low maintenance and becomes drought-tolerant once established. Pruning can help shape the plant and encourage healthy growth. Since it can spread through seeds and suckers, it’s best to plant it in areas where it won’t overcrowd other plants.
Notes: Smooth sumac features compound leaves with smooth, glossy leaflets measuring 6 to 12 inches long, which transform into a stunning red color in the fall. In late spring to early summer, it produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in upright clusters. By late summer, these flowers develop into bright red, fuzzy clusters of drupes that serve as a food source for wildlife. The dried fruits can also be ground into a spice or used to create a refreshing beverage called sumac lemonade.
Problems: Smooth sumac is typically robust, but it can encounter some challenges. Pests like aphids may gather on the leaves, causing yellowing and curling, while scale insects can weaken the plant by feeding on its sap. Additionally, it is susceptible to certain diseases, including fungal infections and crown rot in excessively wet conditions. Regular monitoring and attentive care can help address these issues and keep your smooth sumac thriving.
Wildlife: Smooth sumac draws a diverse array of wildlife, making it a valuable addition to natural landscapes. Birds such as robins, blue jays, cardinals, finches, and warblers enjoy the bright red berries. Small mammals, including rabbits and deer, may feed on the leaves and tender shoots. The plant also attracts various insects, including beneficial species that aid in pollination and pest management. By offering food and habitat, smooth sumac plays a crucial role in supporting a wide range of wildlife and fostering a healthy ecosystem.
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