Also known as No'aneonó'e (chy) · Red Sumac · Scarlet Sumac
Smooth Sumac (Rhus glabra) is a fast-growing, multi-stemmed shrub native to North America, known for its vibrant red fruit clusters and brilliant fall color.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers full sun for best growth and flowering. Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Moderate to Low (once established)
50% intensity
Water deeply when the top soil is dry. Drought tolerant once established.
Loam, Sand, Clay, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerant of a wide range of temperatures, hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Low
25% intensity
Generally requires little to no fertilization. A light, balanced fertilizer in spring if growth is poor.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during the first year, to establish a strong root system. Once established, Rhus glabra is quite drought tolerant.
Water deeply when the top few centimeters of soil feel dry, reducing frequency in cooler months. Avoid waterlogged conditions which can lead to root rot.
Pruning is primarily done to manage size, shape, and to remove dead or damaged branches. It can be pruned heavily in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
To encourage a more shrub-like form, prune back to a few strong stems. For a tree-like form, thin out competing stems.
Rhus glabra can be propagated by seed, which requires stratification. More commonly, it is propagated by softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer, or by root cuttings taken in late winter.
Division of suckering roots in early spring is also an effective method.
Rhus glabra is not typically grown in containers due to its extensive root system and tendency to sucker.
If container-grown plants become root-bound, repot in early spring into a larger container with well-draining soil. Ensure not to disturb the root ball excessively to minimize transplant shock.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Smooth Sumac (Rhus glabra)
Where Smooth Sumac (Rhus glabra) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Rhus |
| Species | Rhus glabra |
Similar in genus Rhus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
