Zone: 3FRAGRANT SUMAC
Rhus aromatica is commonly referred to as Fragrant Sumac, Aromatic Sumac, Lemon Sumac or Polecat Bush. This is a deciduous, native, low-growing, woody shrub with a rounded form, unique velvety twigs and attractive foliage color. Glossy blue-green, toothed leaves turn brilliant shade of orange, red purple and yellow in fall. Leaves and twigs are aromatic when bruised. Yellow catkin-like flowers precede the dark red berries that persist into March. Fruit is loved by birds and small animals.
Fragrant Sumac thrives in full sun to partial shade in average, well-drained soils. It is perfect for native gardens, stabilizing embankments or for hard to cover areas with poorer soils.
| PLANT | SIZE | TYPE | GALENA | ADD'L | DIG | SOON |
Current inventory will be listed above this line. This plant will not be in the cart if there is no Galena stock listed. Contact Sales Rep for details. | Click for Availability column key & information.
To help this plant settle in and thrive, we recommend these standard planting practices: Plant in well-draining soil, noting that these species are exceptionally adaptable and frequently thrive in poor or rocky sites where other plants struggle. Select a location in full sun to partial shade, which encourages the most vibrant autumn foliage color and consistent growth. While they are highly drought-tolerant once established, provide supplemental water during the first growing season to ensure the root system is well-anchored. Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead wood or to manage the plant's natural spread, as many varieties in this genus exhibit a vigorous, suckering habit that may need occasional containment depending on your landscape design. These shrubs are incredibly resilient and tolerate hard pruning if rejuvenation is required to keep them looking their best. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the root zone to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, taking care to keep the mulch away from the crown to prevent stem rot.