Introduction

Winged Sumac (Rhus copallinum), also known as Shiny Sumac, Shining Sumac, Dwarf Sumac, and Flameleaf Sumac, is a native plant of the southeastern United States that serves multiple ecological roles. From providing sustenance to various species of wildlife to enriching the soil, this plant is a crucial part of its native ecosystems. In this article, we’ll explore the native range of Shiny Sumac, its benefits to butterflies, pollinators, and other wildlife, and its unique attributes that make it an ecological powerhouse.

RHUS COPALLINUM Linnaeus, Sp. Pl. 266. 1753.

Native Range

Shining Sumac is indigenous to the southeastern U.S., with its geographic range extending from the southern Midwest down to the Gulf of Mexico and from the Atlantic Coast westward to Texas. It thrives in a variety of habitats, from dry hillsides to wetlands, making it a versatile species in any southeastern landscape.