Sumacs are generally shrubs or small trees. Most have compound pinnate leaves (with leaflets arranged around a central stem), but some have simple leaves or trifoliate (three leaflets) leaves. Sumac species include both evergreen and deciduous types, and they generally spread by suckering, which allows them to quickly form small thickets but can also make the plants overly aggressive in some circumstances. Sumacs are often planted for the bright fruits (drupes) that are a favorite food of birds, and for the autumn color, which is usually a bright yellow, orange, or red. Sumacs are very easy to grow and tolerant of many conditions. They can handle most types of soil and light conditions, though they definitely have their preferences for optimal conditions. Here are 12 members of the sumac genus to consider for your garden or yard.
Native Area: Southern EuropeUSDA Growing Zones: 8 to 11Height: Up to 10 feet tallSun Exposure: Full sun
Native Area: Mexico, Southwest U.S.USDA Growing Zones: 8 to 10Height: Up to 8 feetSun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
Native Area: Eastern North AmericaUSDA Growing Zones: 3 to 9Height: 2 to 6 feet tallSun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
Native Area: Baja Mexico and Southern CaliforniaUSDA Growing Zones: 8 to 10Height: Up to 10 feetSun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
Native Area: Southwest U.S., and northern and central MexicoUSDA Growing Zones: 6 to 10Height: Up to 6 feetSun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
Native Area: Southeastern U.S.USDA Growing Zones: 5 to 7Height: 1 to 3 feetSun Exposure: Full sun; does not adapt well to shady conditions
Native Area: North AmericaUSDA Growing Zones: 6 to 8Height: up to 20 feetSun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
Native Area: Western North AmericaUSDA Growing Zones: 4 to 6Height: 2 to 3 feet tallSun Exposure: Full sun
Native Area: Northeastern U.S. to southern CanadaUSDA Growing Zones: 3 to 9Height: 9 to 15 feet tall, depending on growing circumstancesSun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
Native Area: Eastern North AmericaUSDA Growing Zones: 3 to 9Height: 15 to 25 feet tallSun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
Native Area: Arizona, Baja California, and Southern CaliforniaUSDA Growing Zones: 7 to 11Height: 4 to 10 feetSun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
Native Area: Eastern U.S.USDA Growing Zones: 4 to 9Height: 7 to 15 feetSun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
