Smooth Sumac
Rhus glabra
Last reviewed: July 2026
Smooth Sumac (Rhus glabra) is a native deciduous shrub found throughout most US states that blooms June through August and supports bees, butterflies, and beetles with excellent drought tolerance.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Smooth Sumac as toxic to livestock.
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.
Growing Smooth Sumac
Grow Smooth Sumac in part shade and low water. Mature plants reach 72 to 240 inches tall and spread 72 to 240 inches wide. Expect high maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
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.
Common questions
- Where does Smooth Sumac grow naturally?
- Smooth Sumac is native to most US states from coast to coast, including the entire eastern United States, Great Plains, Rocky Mountains, and portions of the western states.
- When does Rhus glabra bloom?
- Smooth Sumac produces flowers from June through August, typically in dense clusters that attract various pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Smooth Sumac?
- Bees, butterflies, and beetles are attracted to the small flowers of Rhus glabra during its summer blooming period.
- How much water does Smooth Sumac need?
- This drought-tolerant native shrub thrives with low to moderate water requirements once established, making it excellent for xeriscaping and low-maintenance landscapes.
- Is Smooth Sumac toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Smooth Sumac as toxic to livestock.
- Is Smooth Sumac HOA-friendly?
- Smooth 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 Smooth 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