Evergreen Sumac
Rhus virens
Last reviewed: June 2026
Rhus virens (Evergreen Sumac) is a drought-tolerant native shrub of Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas that blooms from June through November. This hardy evergreen attracts butterflies and bees while requiring minimal water in full sun locations.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
96"–120" H × 72"–96" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
AZ, NM, TX
Pollinators
butterflies, bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Evergreen Sumac is a dense, drought-tolerant shrub that maintains its green foliage year-round. It produces small clusters of flowers from summer through fall and develops attractive red berries. This hardy native adapts well to poor soils and requires minimal water once established.
Growing Evergreen Sumac
Grow Evergreen Sumac in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 96 to 120 inches tall and spread 72 to 96 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Evergreen Sumac takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Height exceeds typical HOA-friendly range
Wildlife value
The extended bloom period from June through November provides nectar for bees and butterflies when few other plants are flowering. Birds feed on the red berries that develop after flowering.
Common questions
- When does Rhus virens bloom?
- Evergreen Sumac blooms from June through November, producing small greenish-white flowers that attract pollinators during the warmer months.
- Where is Rhus virens native?
- Rhus virens is native to the southwestern United States, specifically Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, where it grows in arid and semi-arid regions.
- What pollinators visit Evergreen Sumac?
- Butterflies and bees are the primary pollinators of Rhus virens, attracted to its long blooming period and nectar-rich flowers.
- How much water does Rhus virens need?
- Evergreen Sumac is extremely drought-tolerant and requires low water once established, making it ideal for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.
- Is Evergreen Sumac HOA-friendly?
- Evergreen 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.
Does Evergreen Sumac fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.