Rhus glabra
Smooth Sumac

• This small tree quickly grows 15 ft tall and forms dense colonies.

• It thrives on dry, infertile slopes and open areas.

• Produces velvety red fruits and impressive red foliage in fall, but its aggressive nature makes it a challenging plant for the home landscape. 

• Furry clusters of red berries are as tart and sweet as citrus and can be brewed into tea or ground and used as seasoning. They are high in Vitamin C and easy to preserve through winter.

• Young shoots can be eaten as salad.

• Leaves and wood can be used to make ink.