Also known as Black Sumac · Dwarf Sumac · Flame-Leaf Sumac
Winged Sumac (Rhus copallinum) is a large shrub or small tree known for its glossy, compound leaves and vibrant red fall color. It produces showy red fruit clusters.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun for best flowering and fruit production, but tolerates partial shade.
Low maintenance once established
25% intensity
Water deeply and regularly for the first year. Drought tolerant thereafter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures, hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Low feeder
25% intensity
Generally does not require fertilization. Fertilize lightly in spring if desired.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly during the first year to establish the root system. Once established, Winged Sumac is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental watering, especially in its native, well-drained habitats.
Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Winged Sumac can be pruned to control size and shape, or to encourage a more shrub-like form. Remove suckers to prevent unwanted spread.
Winged Sumac can be propagated by seeds, which require stratification, or by root cuttings taken in late winter. Softwood cuttings can also be taken in early summer and rooted under humid conditions.
Division of suckering root systems is also effective.
Repotting is generally not necessary for Winged Sumac, as it is a large shrub or small tree that is best planted in its permanent location. If container-grown specimens become root-bound, repot into a larger container in early spring.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Winged Sumac (Rhus copallinum)
Where Winged Sumac (Rhus copallinum) 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 copallinum |
Similar in genus Rhus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
