Rhus copallina - Shining Sumac
Most ornamental sumac and best used for naturalization. Can be used effectively in dry or rocky areas. Very large shrub that will need space. Adapts to many soil types but will not tolerate poorly drained sites. Salt tolerant. Attracts birds, butterflies and bees.
Height : 20-30 feet Spread : 20-30 feet
Light : Full sun Water : Dry to medium
Soil : Sand, loam, clay Zone : 4-8
Leaves : Rich, dark green in summer and brilliant red in fall. Central leaf stalk is conspicuously winged
Stem : New growth on stems are grey and hairy
Flower : Creamy greenish yellow in July-August
Fruit : Crimson colored fruit that ripens in September-October persist into winter gradually becoming black
Habit : Compact and dense when young growing into a more open, spreading deciduous shrub