Shrub
Sumac
Rhus
Varieties We Carry
FragrantRhus aromaticaPignutRhusShiningRhus copallina
Sizes & Pricing
3 galFrom$24.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 11.
LightFull Sun, Part Sun
WaterLow
Mature size7-15 feet (shrub form typical in cultivation; occasionally to 30+ feet as small tree) × 10-20 feet
About Sumac
Winged Sumac (Rhus copallinum) is a fast-growing native Florida deciduous shrub or small tree with glossy pinnate leaves that turn brilliant red and orange in autumn. It produces clusters of dark red berries that attract birds and wildlife, and is a larval host for the Red-banded Hairstreak butterfly. Excellent for naturalistic plantings, erosion control, and sunny borders in NE Florida landscapes. Starting at $24.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Summer
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Acidic, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
New foliage emerges. Good planting window.
Bloom season. Handles summer heat well once established.
Foliage may begin to change or drop. Ideal planting window.
Dormant — drops foliage.
Care essentials
Light
Winged Sumac thrives in full sun and tolerates partial sun. In NE Florida it performs best in open sunny exposures where it develops dense form and brilliant red fall color; shade reduces flowering and fruiting.
Water
Highly drought-tolerant once established in NE Florida's well-drained sandy soils; supplemental irrigation is needed only during the establishment period (first growing season). Avoid overwatering, which can cause root problems.
Soil & Fertilizer
Grows readily in poor, dry, sandy or loamy, slightly acidic to neutral soils — typical of NE Florida. Fertilization is generally unnecessary and can promote excessive suckering; no routine feeding is needed after establishment.
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Common questions
Is Sumac a good plant for St. Augustine?
Sumac is a shrub for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 7-15 feet (shrub form typical in cultivation; occasionally to 30+ feet as small tree) × 10-20 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.