Prairie flameleaf sumac
Rhus lanceolata
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
180"–360" H × 180"–300" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug
Native to
NM, OK, TX
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
A small deciduous tree or large shrub with compound, glossy leaves that turn brilliant red and orange in fall. Produces clusters of small white flowers in summer followed by fuzzy red fruit clusters, and can form colonies by root suckers.
In an HOA neighborhood
Prairie flameleaf sumac is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- spreads by root suckers and can form colonies if not maintained
- may require periodic removal of suckers to keep a single-trunk form
Wildlife value
Host plant for butterflies.
Summer flowers draw bees and butterflies, and the fall fruit clusters persist into winter as a food source for birds.
Common questions
- How much sun does Prairie flameleaf sumac need?
- Prairie flameleaf sumac grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Prairie flameleaf sumac bloom?
- Prairie flameleaf sumac blooms in July and August.
- Where is Prairie flameleaf sumac native?
- Prairie flameleaf sumac (Rhus lanceolata) is native to NM, OK, TX, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What butterflies or moths does Prairie flameleaf sumac host?
- Prairie flameleaf sumac is a larval host plant for butterflies.
- Is Prairie flameleaf sumac HOA-friendly?
- Prairie flameleaf sumac is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
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 Prairie flameleaf sumac fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.