A catalog of Native North American Plants: Rhus copallinum

Rhus copallinum

Common name: Winged sumac, Shining sumac, Flameleaf sumac, Dwarf sumac

Flame-leaf sumac, is a species of flowering plant in the cashew family that is native to eastern North America. It is a deciduous tree growing to 3.5–5.5 meters (11–18 ft) tall and an equal spread with a rounded crown. The tiny, greenish-yellow flowers, borne in compact, terminal panicles, are followed by showy red clusters of berries which persist into the winter and attract wildlife. Flowering in June and with mature fruits in August-September.

The somewhat sour berrylike fruits are edible and rich in vitamin A. They are eaten by wildlife and can be made into a lemonade-like drink.

Dye color: Black, Brown, Green, Yellow