Rhus aromatica 'Gro-Low' - Fragrant Sumac cultivar

Sizes available: One gallon

Basics: zones 3-9, 18-24" x 72-96", sun to part shade, yellow blooms in early spring, prefers medium to dry soils and can grow in lean soils, very adaptable to all but soggy soils

Common names: This is a low-growing cultivar of Fragrant Sumac

Family: Anacardiaceae

Origin/Distribution: The species is found in North America from eastern Canada to Mexico. It is native to parts of New England, but not Maine. It has also been introduced in Uzbekistan and Tadzhikistan according to the North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox.

Habitat: The species occurs in open woodlands and thickets.

More: This is a mostly (occasionally male and female flowers occur on the same plant) dioecious, drought-tolerant, suckering, woody ground cover. Excellent for erosion control. Its leaves are scented when crushed, hence the common name. Once leafed out, the foliage is attractive all season and offers beautiful fall color. This deer resistant colonizer spreads by suckers and is potentially allelopathic which may make it useful in helping control invasives. The roots of the species have been used to make a yellow dye. The dried leaves have been used in smoking mixtures and the leaves and bark have been used for tanning leather. The berries have a citrus flavor and can be used to make a type of "lemonade". 

Even more: The shrubby structure provides cover for small mammals and invertebrates. The springtime nectar is attractive to butterflies and moths. The berries are enjoyed by robins, flickers, ruffed grouse, turkeys, chipmunks, raccoons, and possums among others. 

Source: Van Berkum Nursery

Image credits: Van Berkum Nursery