Rhus copallinum – Winged sumac

Description

Winged Sumac (Rhus copallinum) thrives in full sun, well-drained soils, and spreads via root suckers, making it great for erosion control and wildlife gardens, offering nectar/pollen for bees, wasps, and host for Luna moths/Hairstreaks, with its drooping red fruits feeding birds and mammals through winter. Seed germination requires scarification (acid/heat) and cold stratification, but it readily propagates from suckers for easy establishment in natural areas or as hedges, providing stunning fall color and edible (but tart) fruit.