Virginia Sumac
Rhus typhina
Last reviewed: June 2026
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.
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.
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 Virginia Sumac fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.