Skunkbush Sumac (3-Leaf Sumac)

This long-lived shrub that grows from 2’-7’ tall. It is very drought tolerant and is well adapted to 10-20” of precipitation. Grow on elevations from 3,500 – 10,000 ft. Skunkbush Sumac is readily recognized by its conspicuously three-lobed leaves, berry-like fruit, and by its unpleasant but typical odor from crushed leaves and broken twigs, hence the name skunkbush. The bush is very ornamental and turns a rich red-orange color in the fall. Establishment is very slow by seed.