Plant Profile: Rhus aromatica

This sprawling, low-growing shrub features branches that frequently reach the ground and can develop roots. It also produces suckers, allowing it to create colonies. The plant offers numerous advantages, such as vibrant fall foliage and resilience against various conditions, including drought, erosion, black walnut toxicity, and challenges posed by rabbits, clay soil, dry environments, and shallow, rocky terrain.

Fragrant sumac is particularly noted for its striking red autumn color. It typically reproduces in a dioecious manner, meaning that a male pollinator is necessary for the female plants to produce fruit.

Preferred habitat: Rocky woodlands.