Are you looking to add a touch of beauty and versatility to your garden or landscaping project? Look no further than Sumac Shrubs from Cold Stream Farm, a leading retail and wholesale supplier located in Free Soil, Michigan. With our commitment to quality, we grow, package, and ship sumac seedlings and transplants throughout the United States. Whether you’re a homeowner or a professional landscaper, we have you covered with our wide selection and no minimum order requirements. Please note that availability may vary depending on the season, so plan accordingly.
What is a Sumac Shrub?
Sumac shrubs, sometimes spelled as “sumachs,” belong to the genus Rhus and are known for their vibrant flowers. These small trees or deciduous shrubs come in a variety of colors and are native to different parts of the United States and Canada. At Cold Stream Farm, we offer two species of sumac: Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina) and Fragrant Sumac (Rhus aromatica).
Discover Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina)
Staghorn Sumac, also known as velvet sumac or hairy sumac, is a stunning flowering plant native to the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. Its vibrant colors and versatile uses have made it a popular choice worldwide. Check out our current availability of Staghorn Sumac here.
Explore Fragrant Sumac (Rhus aromatica)
Cold Stream Farm is proud to offer Fragrant Sumac, also known as aromatic sumac. Although it may resemble its poisonous relative, Toxicodendron radicans, Fragrant Sumac is harmless and releases a pleasant fragrance when its leaves are crushed. Learn more about Fragrant Sumac and browse our available stock here.
Ideal Growing Conditions for Sumac Shrubs
Sumac shrubs are highly adaptable and can thrive in various growing conditions. Fragrant Sumac can be found across all contiguous states in America, while Staghorn Sumac has been cultivated globally. These shrubs are drought-tolerant and can withstand dry spells that would harm other plants. They also have the ability to improve poor soil conditions. From exposed hillsides to lawns and gardens, sumac shrubs thrive in full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.
Size and Characteristics
Staghorn Sumac can reach heights of up to 15 feet when fully matured, while Fragrant Sumac typically grows to around 6 feet tall. Fragrant Sumacs, in particular, can be cultivated using “low-grow” techniques, allowing them to spread horizontally with intentional pruning and care.
Leaves, Flowers, and Fruits
Sumac bushes have bright green leaves that turn a beautiful orange-red in the fall. Both Fragrant and Staghorn Sumac produce yellow flowers in early spring. The fruit of a Sumac shrub is bright red, with Fragrant Sumac bearing berry-shaped clusters and Staghorn Sumac displaying cone-shaped fruit spires.
Ecology and Wildlife
Sumac plants play a vital role in the environment, providing food and shelter for various species. Butterflies and birds, such as grouse, turkey, pheasant, bobwhite, and more, are attracted to these shrubs. Sumac seeds are often spread through the digestion and transport of animals that feed on the berries and flowers. Sumac shrubs can withstand heavy browsing and are a welcoming sight year-round, particularly in winter when their berries remain exposed on leafless branches.
The Benefits and Uses of Sumac Shrubs
Staghorn Sumac berries are entirely edible and have been used in culinary creations for centuries. They can be used in jellies, refreshing lemonade-like drinks, and even as flavor enhancers when smoking tobacco and other plants. Dried sumac fruit is a popular fuel for beekeeping smokers. The leaves and bark of sumac shrubs are also valuable, mainly contributing as a natural dye due to their tannin-rich composition.
Planting and Maintenance Tips
Most Sumac shrubs thrive with minimal maintenance in USDA zones 3 through 9. Fragrant Sumacs grow slowly, while Staghorn Sumacs tend to grow quickly, sometimes reaching over 2 feet in a single season. Although not as dense as other shrubs, sumac plants can be planted to create informal hedges or boundary lines in exposed areas of your property. Regular monitoring for suckers and proper shaping through pruning will ensure your sumac plants remain healthy and vibrant for years to come.
Wholesale & Retail Sumac Plants Suppliers
Ready to transform your space with the beauty and versatility of sumac shrubs? Visit our website to explore our available stock and place your order online. If you have any questions or wish to discuss a future order, feel free to reach out to our team. At Cold Stream Farm, there is no minimum order quantity, and we offer shipping throughout the United States. Additional shipping charges apply to wholesale sumac plant orders in Canada, Hawaii, and Alaska.
Elevate your garden or landscaping project with the exquisite beauty of sumac shrubs. Order from Cold Stream Farm today and experience the wonder of these versatile and stunning plants.