Rhus aromatica aka Aromatic Sumac

Rhus aromatica, or fragrant sumac, is a deciduous shrub. It belongs to the cashew family, Anacardiaceae. Its native range spans North America, from eastern Canada to Mexico. It grows in open woods, clearings, and thickets. Garden plants reach 2–6 feet [0.6–1.8 metres] tall. Some sources give 2–4 feet [0.6–1.2 metres] as the usual height. Their spread reaches 6–10 feet [1.8–3 metres]. Root suckers let this dense shrub form broad patches.

The branches spread outward, and their tips may turn upward. Young stems have fine hairs and a zigzag shape. They start brown and turn gray with age. The bark has a rough, reddish-brown surface. Each leaf has three toothed leaflets, with the largest at its tip. Leaves range from glossy green to blue-green. Fine hairs may cover their undersides. Crushed leaves give off a lemon-like scent. In fall, they turn orange, red, or purple-red.

Small yellow to greenish-yellow flowers open before the leaves. Bloom falls in March and April and lasts one or two weeks. Male flowers form catkins; female flowers form short clusters at branch tips. Male and female flowers may share a shrub or grow separately. Female flowers produce small, hairy drupes that turn red. The fruit develops through summer and may remain into fall. Birds and small mammals eat it. The shrub also gives them cover, while its flowers attract butterflies.

Grow fragrant sumac in sun or partial shade. It prefers acidic soil that drains well. It accepts many soil types, including clay and thin, rocky ground. Dry to moist soil suits it, but poor drainage does not. It tolerates heat and drought and grows in USDA zones 3–9. Growth is slow, and upkeep is low. Plantings can hold soil on banks and slopes. It also suits informal hedges, woodland edges, and native gardens. Stems can root where they touch the ground.

Serious pest and disease trouble is uncommon. Leaf spots, rust, aphids, mites, and scale can occur. Leaf galls mainly affect looks; vascular wilt has also been reported. The fruit is edible raw or cooked and can make drinks. Dried fruit can also be ground for food. Roots supplied dye, while leaves and bark served in tanning. Its leaves resemble poison ivy, but Missouri Botanical Garden describes it as non-poisonous. PFAF notes unconfirmed reports of skin rash from sap.