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Smooth Sumac
Brilliant Fruit is Winter Bird FoodThe Smooth Sumac, Rhus glabra, is a shade-intolerant pioneer on heavily disturbed sites. It is particularly common along road and railroad rights-of-way.It matures to 10'-15' high and reproduces clonally via root suckers. It prefers full sun and drier soils, but will tolerate partial shade.Usually in clumps of several to many individuals in a clone, rarely more than 25 stems in one clone. Sumac will often be found within the first year following fire.Smooth sumac is a short-lived pioneer and seed production is moderately abundant, and seeds are dispersed by birds. Growth is rapid and the typical lifespan is about 20-30 years, though clones can persist for centuries. The flame shaped fruit is important as winter bird and deer food. Its' foliage has a brilliant set of fall colors of yellow, orange and red.It is suited to group plantings in small to large yards. It is especially useful in attracting birds and deer to naturalized yards.* Native Small Shrubby Tree* Brilliant Fall Colors* Attracts Deer and Birds