Smooth Sumac Growth in South Carolina

Growth Habit and Distribution

• Smooth sumac is a deciduous shrub native to South Carolina and is found growing naturally in almost every county in the western half of the state. Open pastures, forest edges, roadsides and utility easements all provide good growing conditions for this shrub. Though it is a native plant, it is considered weedy and invasive because of its tendency to form extensive colonies where little else can grow. However, the attractive fall foliage and winter berry display offer some redemption for its weediness. The stems grow long and lanky to 15 feet or more, with the foliage concentrated near the top, a trait that makes a nice compliment with low-growing evergreen shrubs planted in the foreground.

Seasonal Growth

• Smooth sumac leafs out very early in spring in South Carolina's mild temperate climate and begins to grow rapidly -- mature plants can easily grow 3 feet each year. By summer, the enormous flower clusters emerge above the foliage. The greenish white blossoms form on elongated stalks 6 to 10 inches in length and give way to velvet red berries on female plants in fall. From an aesthetic perspective, the fall foliage is the high point of smooth sumac's growth cycle each year, appearing in intense shades of orange and scarlet red -- one of the most dramatic displays of any of South Carolina's native plants.

Growing Conditions

• Smooth sumac tolerates dry, rocky infertile soils with ease. It grows rampantly in all regions of South Carolina except the swampy lands of the Coastal Plain. In general, it tolerates almost any growing condition except full shade and waterlogged soils. For plants grown in home landscapes, smooth sumac needs weekly irrigation for its first year of growth, but afterwards complete drought tolerance can be expected. Whether the soil is heavy clay or light sand, acidic or alkaline, smooth sumac survives and -- in most cases -- thrives.

Growth Management

• South Carolina has a long, warm growing season with abundant rainfall, stimulating rampant growth in smooth sumac. At its best, smooth sumac is used in naturalized settings where it benefits wildlife and can be enjoyed by humans from a distance. However, its tendency to form extensive thickets requires some form of management in most home landscapes. Removing mature plants involves heavy machinery, intensive herbicide use or both. For this reason, it is better to plant it where there is a barrier, such as pavement, deep shade or a frequently mowed lawn, that will restrict its growth. In general, smooth sumac should be cut to the ground every few years to keep its growth in check and looking fresh.