Quick answer: Winged sumac (Rhus copallinum) is native to 30 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seeds, verified 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Unknown photographer, Wikimedia Commons (PUBLIC DOMAIN)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun |
|---|---|
| Water | Low |
| Soil | Rocky, poor |
| Bloom | Jul-Aug |
| Height | 20-35 ft |
| Wildlife value | Winter food for gamebirds/songbirds/mammals, special value to native/honey bees |
none noted; often forms thickets via suckering, single-sexed colonies
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seeds via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Winged sumac
Where is Winged sumac native?
Winged sumac (Rhus copallinum) is native to 30 states across the Northeast, Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Winged sumac bloom?
Winged sumac blooms Jul-Aug. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Winged sumac need?
Light: Sun. Water: Low. Soil: Rocky, poor. Mature height: 20-35 ft.
Is Winged sumac good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Winter food for gamebirds/songbirds/mammals, special value to native/honey bees.
Is Winged sumac deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Winged sumac is drought-tolerant.
Where can I buy real Winged sumac seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seeds that names the true species, last checked 16 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Rhus copallinum on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Winged sumac.
- Flowering dogwood Cornus florida
- Northern spicebush Lindera benzoin
- Virgin's bower Clematis virginiana
- American holly Ilex opaca
- Black cherry Prunus serotina
- White ash Fraxinus americana
Also listed under
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