Winged Sumac
Rhus copallinum · Deciduous Broadleaf Shrub/Small Tree
Plant Family
Anacardiaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental, Wildlife, Conservation Plant
Variety / Cultivar
Common species (wild type)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 4 through 9
About This Tree
A small deciduous tree or large multi-stemmed shrub often forming thickets via root suckers. It has an open, spreading crown and is known for its spectacular scarlet fall foliage. In summer, it produces creamy-white flower panicles followed by dark red drupes.
Leaf Characteristics
Pinnately compound with 7-21 leaflets; leaflets are oblong-lanceolate with mostly smooth margins (though sometimes serrated near tips), shiny dark green above. The central leaf stalk (rachis) features distinctive green, leaf-like 'wings' between the leaflets.
Bark Characteristics
Light brown to gray; initially smooth with prominent lenticels, becoming scaly or slightly fissured with age. Twigs are reddish-brown and pubescent when young.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern North America, from Ontario to Florida and west to Texas.
Growing Season
Leafs out in late spring; flowers mid to late summer; fruits ripen in autumn and persist through winter; enters dormancy in late autumn.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun preferred; moderate to low water needs. Very drought-tolerant once established and thrives in well-drained soils.
Mature Size
Typically 10-20 feet tall and wide; fast growth rate; relatively short lifespan (approx. 30-50 years).
Special Characteristics
Outstanding bright red fall color; high salt tolerance; high drought tolerance; adapts well to poor, rocky, or sandy soils. Used for erosion control on slopes.
Wildlife & Ecology
Highly valuable to wildlife; flowers provide nectar for bees and butterflies. Red berries are a crucial winter food source for many bird species (turkey, grouse, bluebirds) and small mammals. Provides excellent nesting cover.