Rhus aromatica
Fragrant sumac is a medium sized, deciduous shrub with a spreading habit. Don’t let the name “sumac” put you off. While it is in the same family as poison sumac, this lovely shrub does not share its cousin’s rashy habits.
 
This shrub has so much to love. Early Spring interest in the form of catkin-like flowers followed by bright red berries, which are a favorite of many songbirds, feeding them long into the winter months.
 
Interesting green foliage provides privacy throughout the summer, and turns brilliant shades of yellow, purple, and red come the fall. Rhus aromatica has a lovely citrus fragrance, making it an excellent choice as a spreading privacy hedge.
 
The berries feed birds and small mammals, and it is the larval host plant for the Red-banded Hairstreak Butterfly. This shrub is of special value for our native bees, providing a food source with the nectar and also as habitat, providing nesting material and structure for overwintering. The berries are also edible for humans, making a refreshing lemonade-like drink.
 
Plants can be purchased in-person or online (with in-person pick-up).
All online orders will be ready for pick-up 24-72 hours after purchase. You will receive an email to let you know when your order is ready. We kindly ask that you pick-up any orders within one week of purchase.