Flameleaf Sumac | Plant Profile

Flameleaf Sumac (Rhus copallinum) are large deciduous shrubs that are native to Pennsylvania. They can be commonly found along roadsides, hills, and open woodlands. These multistemmed shrubs easily spread to create colonies. Yellow, pyramidal flowers grow on the tops of stems. As indicated by the name, the small leaves turn red in fall.

Flameleaf Sumac prefers average fertility, dry to medium moisture, well drained soils in full sun to part shade. Their abundance in the wild demonstrates that they tolerate a wide range of soils, aside of those that are poorly drained.

Flameleaf Sumac should be used in naturalized garden locations rather than formal landscaping. Their aggressive spread and weedy nature can make yards appear messy. Flameleaf Sumac are best utilized on hillsides and dry woodland locations to assist with erosion control.