How to Grow Winged Sumac
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Winged Sumac
Rhus copallina
shrubWinged Sumac is a native North American deciduous shrub characterized by distinctive winged (alate) rachis on its compound leaves, which turn brilliant red and orange in fall. It produces small greenish-yellow flowers followed by fuzzy red berry clusters that persist into winter, providing valuable wildlife food. This hardy, low-maintenance shrub is increasingly popular for native landscapes, wildlife gardens, and erosion control.
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Example Winged Sumac timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Winged 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 Winged Sumac
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Winged Sumac dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; most vigorous in zones 5-8
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Establishment
Year 1Young shrub developing root system and initial branch structure; sparse foliage and no flowering
Water deeply 1-2 times weekly; mulch to retain moisture; avoid fertilizing; stake if exposed to wind
Vegetative Growth
Year 1-2Rapid stem and leaf development; compound leaves with distinctive winged rachis emerging; increasing branch density
Continue regular watering first two growing seasons; minimal pruning unless shaping desired; monitor for any competing weeds
Flowering
June-July (4-6 weeks)Small greenish-yellow flowers appear in dense panicles at branch tips in early summer
No special care needed; flowers are inconspicuous but essential for fruit development; avoid pruning during bloom
Fruiting & Berry Development
July-NovemberSmall fruits (drupes) develop into dense clusters of fuzzy red berries; berries continue to develop and darken through summer
Ensure adequate sun exposure for berry production; no fertilizing; allow berries to persist on plant
Dormancy & Fall Color
October-MarchFoliage transitions to brilliant scarlet, orange, and burgundy hues; berries persist into winter; plant goes dormant
Do not harvest fall color foliage; leave berries for wildlife; minimal maintenance; prune deadwood in late winter if needed
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Rarely serious; prune infested branches if present; avoid pesticides to preserve beneficial insects
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Light infestations cause minor damage; no treatment usually necessary; heavy feeding can be controlled with neem oil if needed
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Spray with water to dislodge; apply insecticidal soap in severe cases; ensure adequate moisture
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Prune heavily infested branches; apply dormant oil in late winter; generally not a serious issue on established plants
Uses
Wildlife Food & Habitat
WildlifeBerry clusters provide essential fall and winter food for birds including cardinals, bluebirds, and cedar waxwings. Dense branching offers shelter and nesting sites for songbirds and small mammals. [source]
Sumac-ade & Beverages
CulinaryFuzzy red berries contain citric acid and can be soaked in cold water to create a tart, refreshing beverage similar to lemonade, traditional in Middle Eastern and Native American cuisines. [source]
Fall Foliage & Floral Arrangements
HouseholdBrilliant crimson to orange fall foliage and persistent red berry clusters are prized for autumn decorations, dried arrangements, and landscape color that extends from September through winter. [source]
Traditional Herbal Uses
MedicinalHistorically used in Native American and traditional medicine for various ailments including digestive issues and sore throats; contains tannins and antioxidants that have been studied for potential health benefits. [source]
Erosion Control & Land Restoration
HouseholdDeep root system and ability to thrive in poor soils make it excellent for stabilizing slopes, preventing erosion, and restoring degraded lands in native plant restoration 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
Winged Sumac is primarily grown as an ornamental and wildlife plant rather than harvested. Berries can be collected in fall (September-November) for making sumac-ade (a tart beverage) by harvesting entire berry clusters, soaking in water, and straining. Do not consume berries from plants treated with pesticides. Use pruned branches for decorative arrangements in fall.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Winged Sumac leaves fold up at night and during rain, a behavior called 'nyctinasty' that helps protect the plant from excessive moisture loss and damage.
- 🌱 The fuzzy coating on the berries is edible and contains citric acid, giving it a tart lemon-like flavor—this is why it's sometimes called 'lemonade berry' in certain regions.
- 🌱 Despite its name similarity, Winged Sumac is completely unrelated to and non-toxic unlike Poison Sumac (Toxicodendron vernix), which is in an entirely different genus and has white berries.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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