Smooth Sumac
Rhus glabra
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
low
Size
72"–240" H × 72"–240" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 44 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Smooth sumac is a native shrub that forms colonies through underground runners, creating naturalistic groves over time. It produces clusters of small greenish flowers in summer followed by red berry clusters, with foliage turning brilliant orange-red in fall.
In an HOA neighborhood
Smooth 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 suckers
- Can appear uncontrolled and weedy
- Large mature size may overwhelm typical landscapes
Wildlife value
Host plant for Spring Azure, Io Moth, Luna Moth.
The summer blooms attract bees, butterflies, and beetles, while the persistent red berries provide food for birds through winter.
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 Smooth Sumac fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.