Virginia Sumac
Rhus typhina
Last reviewed: June 2026
Rhus typhina is a deciduous shrub native to eastern North America that blooms in June and July. This adaptable plant tolerates various growing conditions and attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Virginia Sumac as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
240"–480" H × 240"–480" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, CT, DE, GA and 22 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
This large, fast-spreading shrub forms colonies through underground runners. It produces clusters of red berries in fall and displays brilliant orange-red autumn foliage before dropping its leaves for winter.
Growing Virginia Sumac
Grow Virginia Sumac in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 240 to 480 inches tall and spread 240 to 480 inches wide. Expect high maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Virginia 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 root suckers
- Can appear wild and unkempt
- Very large mature size may overwhelm typical residential spaces
Wildlife value
Host plant for spring azure, rosy maple moth.
The June and July flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beetles for pollination. Birds feed on the persistent red berry clusters throughout fall and winter.
Common questions
- When does Rhus typhina bloom?
- Rhus typhina blooms during June and July, producing small greenish-yellow flowers in dense clusters.
- What pollinators visit Rhus typhina?
- Rhus typhina attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles with its summer flowers, making it valuable for supporting pollinator populations.
- Where is Rhus typhina native?
- Rhus typhina is native to much of eastern North America, from Maine south to Georgia and west to Minnesota and Iowa.
- What growing conditions does Rhus typhina prefer?
- Rhus typhina is very adaptable, tolerating full sun to partial shade and wet to dry soil conditions, making it suitable for challenging sites.
- Is Virginia Sumac toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Virginia Sumac as toxic to livestock.
- Is Virginia Sumac HOA-friendly?
- Virginia 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 Virginia 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