How to Grow Smooth Sumac
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Smooth Sumac
Rhus glabra
shrubSmooth Sumac is a deciduous native North American shrub known for its fuzzy red berry clusters and brilliant fall foliage in shades of orange, red, and burgundy. It grows 9-15 feet tall and spreads via underground rhizomes to form thickets, making it excellent for erosion control and wildlife habitat. The plant is non-toxic and its berries can be used to make a refreshing citrusy beverage commonly called 'sumac-ade'.
When should you plant Smooth Sumac in your zone?
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Example Smooth Sumac timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Smooth Sumac
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Smooth Sumac
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Smooth Sumac dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-9; extremely cold-hardy and adaptable across most of North America
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Get my Smooth Sumac timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment (Year 1)
First 12 monthsYoung shrub focuses on root development; green compound leaves emerge in spring; no flowers or berries yet
Water regularly during first growing season; mulch to retain moisture and suppress competition; establish deep roots before drought tolerance develops
Vegetative Growth (Years 1-2)
12-24 monthsLeafy growth expands; the plant develops its characteristic compound pinnate leaves with 11-31 leaflets; stem thickens and rhizomes begin spreading
Allow natural growth; minimal pruning needed; remove competing vegetation if desired; monitor for spread if space is limited
Flowering (Late Spring)
4-6 weeks (May-June)Small greenish-yellow flowers appear in dense pyramidal clusters (panicles) at branch tips; male and female flowers on separate plants
Flowering indicates maturity is approaching; ensure adequate sunlight for flower production; no deadheading needed
Berry Development (Summer-Early Fall)
8-12 weeks (June-September)Fertilized female flowers develop into fuzzy red drupes that cluster together in cone-shaped berry heads; berries mature to deep red by late summer
Berries are best harvested before heavy rain or birds consume them; provide full sun exposure for bright red color development
Fall Color & Dormancy (Late Fall-Winter)
8-16 weeks (September-January)Foliage transforms to brilliant shades of orange, red, scarlet, and burgundy; berries persist on branches; plant becomes dormant after first frost
Enjoy the spectacular fall display; berries persist into winter providing wildlife food; no care needed during dormancy
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Usually not damaging; prune affected branches if severe; encourage natural predators
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Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil in severe cases; rare on established plants
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Minor leaf damage; generally tolerated; no treatment usually needed
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Improve air circulation; remove affected leaves; rarely requires treatment
Uses
Sumac-ade & Beverages
CulinaryThe tart, lemony berries make a refreshing homemade sumac-ade drink similar to lemonade. Berries can also be dried and ground into a zesty spice for cooking. [source]
Traditional Herbal Remedy
MedicinalIndigenous peoples used smooth sumac berries to treat digestive issues and respiratory problems. The plant contains antioxidants and vitamin C. [source]
Wildlife Food & Habitat
WildlifeRed berries persist into winter providing critical food for songbirds, deer, and small mammals. The dense growth creates excellent nesting and shelter habitat. [source]
Natural Dye Production
HouseholdBerries and roots contain tannins used traditionally to create natural dyes and mordants for fabric coloring. [source]
Erosion Control & Land Restoration
EcologicalSpreads via rhizomes to stabilize soil on slopes and disturbed areas; excellent native plant for habitat restoration and naturalization projects. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Berry clusters (drupes) are ready to harvest in late August through September when they turn deep red and fuzzy. Harvest entire cone-shaped clusters by cutting with clean pruners. Rinse berries and dry thoroughly. For sumac-ade, soak clusters in cold water for several hours, strain, sweeten, and chill. Berries can be dried for storage. Male trees produce no berries but create less mess.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Smooth Sumac is completely non-toxic and unrelated to poison ivy or poison oak, despite superficial similarities; it's safe to handle and harvest.
- 🌱 The berries are covered in a waxy, slightly fuzzy coating that makes them easy to identify and is the likely source of the plant's common name 'smooth' referring to the smooth stems.
- 🌱 Native Americans used sumac berries for over 2,000 years to make a drink similar to lemonade; the berries contain malic acid, the same acid found in apples.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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