Sumac, Aromatic, Bare Root

Aromatic Sumac (Rhus aromatica)

Aromatic Sumac is a low-growing, colony-forming native shrub that excels at stabilizing soil, supporting wildlife, and providing brilliant fall color. Despite its name, Aromatic Sumac is not strongly fragrant but is so called for the lightly citrus-scented foliage when crushed. Native to much of the eastern and central U.S., this adaptable shrub thrives in dry, rocky soils and harsh sites, making it ideal for erosion control, bank stabilization, and native groundcover plantings. Its dense habit and ecological resilience make it a favorite for regenerative design and habitat restoration.

Key Characteristics

• Dense, ground-hugging form for erosion control
  Growing 2–6 feet tall and spreading widely by suckers, Aromatic Sumac forms dense colonies that hold soil in place on banks, slopes, and disturbed sites. It is a go-to plant for erosion control in native plantings, roadways, and post-construction landscapes.
• Important wildlife habitat and bird food
  Its small, fuzzy red berries ripen in late summer to fall and are consumed by wild turkeys, quail, robins, and other songbirds. The thicket-forming habit also provides valuable cover and nesting habitat for birds and small mammals.
• Pollinator-friendly spring blooms
  In early spring, clusters of small yellow flowers bloom before the leaves emerge. These early flowers attract native bees and small pollinating flies, offering vital nectar at a time when few other plants are blooming.
• Striking fall foliage and seasonal beauty
  The trifoliate leaves turn vivid shades of orange, red, and purple in autumn, rivaling the best fall color plants. Aromatic Sumac adds seasonal interest to naturalistic gardens, wildlife corridors, and native hedgerows.
• Tough, low-maintenance, and deer resistant
  Aromatic Sumac tolerates drought, poor soils, full sun, and steep terrain. It is not favored by deer, requires no irrigation once established, and is long-lived—making it ideal for sustainable and low-input landscaping.

Product Details

• Native range: Eastern and Central U.S., from Canada to Texas and Florida
• Plant life cycle: Deciduous Shrub
• Sun requirements: Full sun to part shade
• Soil requirements: Medium-dry to dry; tolerant of poor, rocky, and sandy soils
• Mature height: 2–6 feet
• Bloom time: Early spring
• Bloom color: Yellow
• USDA Hardiness zones: 3–9

Aromatic Sumac is one of the best native shrubs for stabilizing soil, feeding birds, and adding year-round structure and beauty to challenging sites. A true workhorse for restoration and regenerative landscapes.