Fragrant Sumac

Scientific Nomenclature: Rhus aromatica

Common Names: fragrant sumac, aromatic sumac, lemon sumac, polecat bush

Mature Height: 3–6 feet

Mature Spread: 6–10 feet

Growth Rate: Slow

Attracts Wildlife: Pollinators, birds and mammals

Messiness: Fragrant sumac will drop some of its flowers after blooming in the spring and it drops its leaves in late autumn.

Shape: Spreading/Multi-stemmed

Native to Kentucky: Yes

Preferred Soils: Fragrant sumac prefers shallow rocky soils or well-drained clay. Acidic (<6.0pH) soils are preferred.

Screening: Can be planted in multiples to make an informal hedge of sorts. Fragrant sumac will require regular maintenance if a more reasonable, natural form is preferred.

Drought Tolerance: Is drought tolerant

Coniferous or Deciduous: Deciduous

Pruning: Fragrant sumac should be regularly pruned to maintain its form, as it suckers and forms colonies when left alone.

Following being planted as a sapling, over 20 years one fragrant sumac will:

• Sequester ~807 pounds of CO2.
• Reduce stormwater runoff by 268 gallons.