Oakleaf Sumac (Rhus trilobata or Rhus aromatica var. trilobata) is a deciduous shrub that tends to form rounded, mounded, or upright thickets. Plants are either male or female. In spring the male plants will produce inconspicuous catkins while the females will feature creamy flowers in clusters. If the female flowers are pollinated, these flowers will turn to red, hairy berries that are a valuable winter food source for wildlife, or can be harvested from the plant for eating or medicinal purposes. The attractive green foliage, that somewhat resemble an oak leaf, will turn to bright shades of yellow, red, and orange in the fall. Oakleaf Sumac is an excellent addition to mixed hedges, wind breaks, woodland or shade plantings, erosion control on steep slopes, or a speciman plant or background plant in garden beds. Pruning will help maintain a more compact, rounded form. Oakleaf Sumac is moderately tolerant of urban pollution.
Expected 2025 Availability- May or Early June 2025
Photo Credit: Krzysztof Ziarnek
Oakleaf Sumac
Irrigation Requirement: Very Low (Water to Establish) or Low (1/2" every 10-14 days)
Mature Size: 3 - 8' tall and 3 - 8' wide
Bloom Colors: Creamy/Yellow
Bloom Season: April - May
Hardiness Zone: 3 - 8
Light Requirement: Full Sun or Partial Shade
Deer Resistant: Yes
Salt Tolerant: Somewhat
Soils: Very adaptable. Can grow in sandy, loam, or clay soils.
Plants in the Rhus genus are known host plants for 9 species of pollinators in northern Utah. Oakleaf Sumac is also a nectar and pollen source for many pollinators, and provides berries and habitat for birds and small animals.