Rhus lanceolata (Prairie Flameleaf Sumac)

Prairie Flameleaf Sumac is a winner if you are looking to a large shrub or small tree with excellent fall color in reds and oranges. It has clusters of white flowers in the summer, followed by red fruit that is cherished by birds. Prairie Flameleaf Sumac tends to form thickets, although less so if not pampered and the soil is not disturbed. It does best in naturalized gardens where it has the space to spread. The suckers can be removed, and the plants can be used as a specimen. Because of its spreading nature, it performs well stabilizing slopes.   AT A GLANCE Texas native Yes Water use Low, medium Sun exposure Full sun to part sun Bloom color  White Bloom time Summer Mature height 12-25 ft Attracts Birds, butterflies Host plant Red-banded hairstreak, banded hairstreak Erosion control Yes Notes Native bee friendly.    DISTRIBUTION MAPS  USDA MAP BONAP MAP  Present in state  Present in county and native  Native to North America, but adventive & escaped in state           Not present in state  Present and rare, native in county  Previously present, now extinct  Questionable presence (cross-hatched, regardless of color)