// SPECIES PROFILE · SHRUB · NATIVE

Fragrant sumac

Rhus aromatica var. aromatica

Fragrant sumac (Rhus aromatica var. aromatica) is a shrub in the — family. Native range includes AR, KS, MO, OK. Hardy in zones 2b–11b. Mature size 6'–12'. Blooms Apr–Jun.

// QUICK FACTS

Family: —
Group: shrub
Native range: Native to 34 U.S. states, including AL, AR, CT, DC, FL, GA…
USDA hardiness: Zones 2b–11b
Mature size: 6'–12'
Sun: Part shade
Water: Low · xeric
Bloom: Apr–Jun
Wildlife value: Pollinator and wildlife support
Ecological role: native species profile

Fragrant sumac (Rhus aromatica var. aromatica) — *Rhus aromatica var. aromatica* — Fragrant sumac. Photo via iNaturalist — (c) Nathan Aaron, some rights reserved (CC BY).

Field Notes

[ growing · ecology · siting · care ]

Fragrant sumac (Rhus aromatica var. aromatica) is a shrub in the — family. Native range includes AR, KS, MO, OK. Hardy in zones 2b–11b. Mature size 6'–12'. Blooms Apr–Jun. Low water use makes it a strong candidate for xeric and drought-conscious plantings.

Why it's on this list: native species profile. Native-range data from the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (NPIN), cross-checked against iNaturalist observations. Part of Rooted Revival's regional native plant catalog — true natives for Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri and Kansas.

Companion Planting

[ guild · polyculture · cross-layer pairings ]

In the same native range, fragrant sumac pairs naturally with: False Indigo Bush (Amorpha fruticosa), Fragrant Sumac (Rhus aromatica), Smooth Sumac (Rhus glabra), Great ragweed (Ambrosia trifida).