This upright shrub to small tree is dense when young and maturing to an open rounded crown. The divided leaves have glossy dark green, oblong leaflets that turn rich red during autumn and the yellow-green flowers appear in summer in clusters.

Hardiness zones 5 to 9 

Rhus copallina is naturally found in eastern North America growing in well-drained fertile soils with reliable moisture but will tolerate drier rocky soils. It prefers an open sunny position and is frost tolerant but dislikes drought or high temperatures.

Dwarf Sumac is grown for its bushy habit and colourful autumn foliage. It is planted in shrub borders for screening or used as a lawn specimen. It can also be planted in courtyards for summer shade and during summer the leaves give a luxurious effect to a formal garden. It establishes in 2 to 4 years and is long lived. ID 1621

Rhus (rus) copallina (cop-a-LEN-na)

Anacardiaceae (an-a-kard-ee-AY-see-ee)