Common Name: Fragrant SumacScientific Name Genus: RhusFamily Name: AnacardiaceaeIdentification NotesEasy to grow. Prefers dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Tolerates a wide range of soils, but not poorly drained. Drought tolerant. Although related to poison ivy (Rhus radicans), Rhus aromatica is not poisonous. Native HabitatNative to eastern North America. Hardy zones 3-9. Growth HabitDense, low-growing shrub that spreads by root suckers. Grows 2-4' tall and spread to 10' wide. LeavesTrifoliate, coarsely toothed, ovate leaves 3-5" long in an alternate arrangement. Aromatic when crushed. Pubescent underside.Glossy medium green turns shades or orange, red, and purple in the fall.Leaves resemble poison ivy, but are smaller. Bark and Stems FlowersBlooms in early spring before leaves on the ends of stems.Tiny yellow flowers. Separate male (catkins) and female flowers (clusters). FruitHairy, red drupes on female plants. Mature in August and persists into fall. Terminal panicles. Bloom TimeSpring Common ProblemsNo serious insect or disease problems. Can be susceptible to leaf spot, rust, scale, aphids, and mites. Nipple galls on foliage can be a problem but generally only cosmetic issue. Varieties or Cultivars'Gro-low' - very common cultivar. Frequently found in trade. Similar to species but growing 1.5-2' tall and 6-8' wide. Landscape UsesBest used in groups as a groundcover, to stabilize banks, or for difficult areas with poor soils. Better in naturalistic areas or woodland edge.