Common Name
Fragrant sumac
Aromatic sumac
Lemon sumac
Polecat bush
Polecat sumac
Scientific Name
Rhus aromatica
Additional scientific names
Previously known as
Lobadium aromaticum
Ground Cover
Yes
Evergreen
No
Plant Form
Shrubs & Small Trees
Max Height (ft)
7.0
Region
Coastal
Piedmont
Mountain
Rhus aromatica.jpg
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
Light Requirements
Full sun
Partial sun
Shade
Moisture Requirements
Moist
Dry
Soil Texture
Clay
Loamy
Sandy
Shallow rocky
Grassland Species
No
Riparian Buffer Species?
No
Flower Color
Gold/Yellow
Green
Bloom Time
Spring
Fall Color
Burgandy/Red
Orange
Purple
Deer Resitant
Yes
Low Maintenance
No
Climate-smart plant
No
Good Choice for Public Spaces
Yes
Tolerates
Seed or Fruit eaten by wildlife?
Yes
Supports Pollinators
Yes
Pollinators
Bees
Butterfiles