Smooth Sumac (Rhus glabra) Pollination Info:

Smooth Sumac is primarily pollinated by bees and other insects. The flowers of the plant are small and greenish-yellow in color, and they produce nectar to attract pollinators.

The plant is dioecious, which means it has separate male and female individuals. The male flowers produce pollen, which is carried by the wind or insects to the female flowers for fertilization.

Smooth Sumac blooms from June to August, and the fruit, called drupes, ripen in the late summer and autumn.

The drupes are an important food source for many birds and mammals, including deer and bears, and the seeds can remain viable for up to ten years.

Overall, Smooth Sumac is an important plant for pollinators and wildlife, and it plays a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem health.

Smooth Sumac (Rhus glabra) FAQ

1. What is Smooth Sumac?

Smooth Sumac, also known as Rhus glabra, is a medium-sized shrub that is native to North America. It can grow up to 20 feet tall and has compound leaves with serrated margins that typically turn orange or red in the fall.

2. Where can Smooth Sumac be found?

Smooth Sumac is commonly found in open woods, fields, and along roadsides in eastern and central North America. It can also be found in parts of Mexico and Guatemala.

3. What are the uses of Smooth Sumac?

Smooth Sumac has a variety of uses. Historically, its dried leaves and berries were used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes, such as treating diarrhea and fever. The berries can also be used to make a lemonade-like drink. The wood of the shrub has been used to make baskets and tools.

4. How do I plant Smooth Sumac?

Smooth Sumac can be planted in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. It can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. It is important to note that Smooth Sumac can spread quickly through underground rhizomes, so it is important to plant it in an area where it can spread freely or in a container.

5. How do I care for Smooth Sumac?

Smooth Sumac is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in many different environments. It is drought-tolerant and does not need to be fertilized. But, if you want to prevent the shrub from spreading too quickly, you can mow or prune it regularly.

6. Can Smooth Sumac be harmful to humans or pets?

Smooth Sumac is generally considered safe for humans and pets to touch or consume. However, some people may be allergic to the plant’s sap or pollen. If you notice any adverse reactions, it is best to avoid contact with the plant.

7. Can Smooth Sumac be invasive?

Smooth Sumac can be invasive in some areas due to its ability to spread rapidly through underground rhizomes. It is important to plant it in an area where it can spread freely or in a container to prevent it from taking over other plants or areas.

Planting & Care for Smooth Sumac (Rhus glabra)

Planting

Smooth Sumac is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are the steps to plant:

1. Choose a location with well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
2. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root ball and just as deep.
3. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, firming it down gently as you go.
4. Water the plant immediately after planting to help it establish.

Care

Once planted, Smooth Sumac requires minimal care. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:

• Water regularly, especially during the first few months after planting, to help the roots establish.
• Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Prune in late winter or early spring to promote new growth and control the size and shape of the plant.
• Fertilizing is generally not necessary, but if desired, apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring.

With these simple steps, you can enjoy the beauty of Smooth Sumac in your landscape for many years to come.