Fragrant Sumac

The Rhus aromatica, also known as Fragrant Sumac, is a native Texas shrub that adds color and aroma to any garden. This deciduous shrub has a low-growing, rambling habit and spreads through root suckers to form thickets in the wild. It typically grows 2-4 feet tall (sometimes 6 feet) and extends up to 10 feet wide, making it perfect for filling open woods, meadows, and thickets.

One of the best things about Rhus aromatica is its stunning autumn leaves, which turn orange, red, and purple. The leaves are also aromatic when bruised, giving off a fragrant scent (hence the species name). Despite resembling poison ivy leaves, Rhus aromatica is non-poisonous. In early spring, tiny yellow flowers bloom at the twig tips. Male flowers form in late summer and persist throughout the winter until they bloom in spring. In late summer, female flowers give way to small clusters of hairy, red berries, which may continue into winter. These berries are attractive to wildlife.

Rhus aromatica can proliferate in dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. It tolerates a wide range of soils, except those that become poorly drained.