Skunkbush Sumac
Rhus trilobata
Last reviewed: July 2026
Skunkbush Sumac is a drought-tolerant native shrub found across western and central states including California, Iowa, and South Dakota. It produces small yellow-green flower clusters from March through May.
Skunkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Skunkbush Sumac is listed as toxic to grazing livestock (cattle, sheep, and goats) at a slight level by the USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab). This is a livestock indicator and is separate from pet toxicity.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
24"–96" H × 36"–96" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
CA, IA, SD
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Skunkbush sumac is a hardy native shrub with distinctive three-lobed leaves that turn brilliant orange-red in fall. It produces small yellow flowers in spring followed by red berries that persist through winter. This drought-tolerant plant forms a rounded mound that works well in borders or as an accent.
Growing Skunkbush Sumac
Grow Skunkbush Sumac in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 24 to 96 inches tall and spread 36 to 96 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Skunkbush Sumac is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, street edge.
- Can appear somewhat unruly if not occasionally trimmed
- Deciduous nature leaves bare branches in winter
- Name may raise concerns despite no actual skunk odor
Wildlife value
Host plant for Spring Azure butterfly.
The spring flowers attract bees and butterflies for pollination. Birds feed on the persistent berries, making it a valuable food source in winter.
Common questions
- When does Skunkbush Sumac bloom?
- Skunkbush Sumac blooms from March through May, producing small clusters of yellow-green flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
- What pollinators visit Skunkbush Sumac?
- Bees and butterflies are the primary pollinators of Skunkbush Sumac, visiting the small flower clusters for nectar and pollen.
- Where is Skunkbush Sumac native?
- Skunkbush Sumac is native to many western and central states including California, Iowa, and South Dakota, among others.
- How much water does Skunkbush Sumac need?
- Skunkbush Sumac is very drought tolerant and requires low water once established, making it excellent for xeriscaping and dry landscapes.
- Is Skunkbush Sumac toxic to dogs?
- Skunkbush Sumac is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Skunkbush Sumac toxic to cats?
- Skunkbush Sumac is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Skunkbush Sumac toxic to livestock?
- Skunkbush Sumac is listed as toxic to grazing livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats (slight severity) by the USDA PLANTS Database. This is separate from pet (dog and cat) toxicity.
- Is Skunkbush Sumac HOA-friendly?
- Skunkbush 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.
Ready to grow Skunkbush 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