Black Sumac
Rhus copallina
Last reviewed: June 2026
Rhus copallina is a native deciduous shrub found across most of the eastern and central United States. It produces small greenish flowers in July and August, followed by brilliant red fall foliage.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
120"–300" H × 120"–240" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CT and 32 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Shining sumac is a native shrub that grows 10-25 feet tall and wide, forming colonies through root suckers. It produces clusters of small greenish flowers in summer followed by red berries, and displays brilliant orange-red fall color.
Growing Black Sumac
Grow Black Sumac in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 120 to 300 inches tall and spread 120 to 240 inches wide. Expect high maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Black Sumac takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Spreads aggressively by root suckers
- Can appear wild and uncontrolled
- Very large mature size for residential areas
Wildlife value
Host plant for red-spotted purple butterfly, spring azure butterfly.
The summer flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beetles for nectar and pollen. The red berries provide important food for birds throughout fall and winter.
Common questions
- Where does Black Sumac naturally grow?
- Black Sumac is native to most of the eastern and central United States, from Maine south to Florida and west to Texas, with populations also found in Arizona and New Mexico.
- When does Rhus copallina bloom?
- Black Sumac typically blooms during July and August, producing small greenish-white flowers in dense terminal clusters.
- What pollinators visit Black Sumac?
- The flowers of Rhus copallina attract various pollinators including bees, butterflies, and beetles, making it valuable for supporting native pollinator populations.
- What are the growing requirements for Black Sumac?
- This adaptable shrub thrives in full sun to partial sun conditions and tolerates drought well once established, preferring low to moderate water conditions.
- Is Black Sumac HOA-friendly?
- Black Sumac takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Black Sumac? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz