Rhus aromatica (Native)

Synonym(s)
Lobadium aromaticum
Common Name
Fragrant sumac
Aromatic sumac
Lemon sumac
Polecat bush
Polecat sumac
Plant Form
Shrubs & Small Trees
Duration
Perennial
Max Height (ft)
7.0
Width (ft)
6.0 - 10.0
Region
Coastal
Piedmont
Mountain
Hardiness Zone
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Commercially available
Yes
Rabbit resistant
Yes

Photographer: bill
Licensed under: CC BY-NC 4.0
Original photo: Original photo

Additional Info

Habitat: limestone cliffs, dry open upland woods, open rocky bluffs, oak barrens and openings, foredunes, barren rock

Wildlife value: The flower nectar attracts butterflies and Luna moths. Turkey, ruffed grouse, robins, and flickers, as well as small mammals like raccoons, possums, and chipmunks feed on the berries. This shrub provides cover for small mammals and birds. Plant NOVA Natives lists this species as particularly popular with the non-native honeybees

Notes: Beautiful in the fall if planted in sun. Suckering, spreads quickly. Can handle very hot and poor soils. Nice fall foliage. The Gro-Low cultivar spreads sideways up to eight feet and can server as ground cover. Tolerates light or moderate shade. Male and female separate plants

Flower Color
Gold/Yellow
Green
Flower Prominence
Conspicuous
Fragrant
Yes
Bloom Time
Spring
Ground Cover
Yes
Fall Color
Burgandy/Red
Orange
Purple
Light Requirements
Full sun
Partial sun
Moisture Requirements
Moist
Dry
Soil Texture
Clay
Loamy
Sandy
Shallow rocky
Good Choice for Public Spaces
Yes
Deer Resitant
Yes
Seed or Fruit eaten by wildlife?
Yes
Pollinators
Bees
Butterfiles