The plants collectively known as sumac belong to the genus Rhus, encompassing a variety of shrubs and small trees worldwide. This group is part of the Anacardiaceae family, which also includes cashews and pistachios. Sumac species are valued both as decorative landscape plants and as a source for the tart, crimson spice used in global cuisine. Different species thrive in temperate and subtropical zones across nearly every continent.
Global Distribution of Culinary Sumac
The spice commonly recognized as sumac originates primarily from Rhus coriaria, often called Sicilian sumac or tanner’s sumach. This species is native to the Mediterranean region and Western Asia. Its historical cultivation includes Southern Europe, such as Sicily, extending eastward into countries like Turkey and Iran.
The dried, ground fruits of Rhus coriaria impart a lemony tang to dishes, particularly in Middle Eastern cuisine. Major commercial production is centered in this historical range, where the spice is an ingredient in blends like za’atar. This single species is the most economically significant member of the genus, defining the culinary sumac trade from the Eastern Mediterranean to the Caucasus.
Native Varieties of North America
North America is home to numerous native sumac species, distinct from the culinary variety found in the Old World. Two of the most widespread are Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina) and Smooth Sumac (Rhus glabra). Staghorn Sumac is common across the eastern and midwestern United States and parts of Canada, identified by the dense, velvety hairs on its branches that resemble a deer’s antlers.
Smooth Sumac lacks the hair on its branches and possesses the widest native range of any sumac, growing across all 48 contiguous US states. Both species produce upright, cone-shaped clusters of fuzzy, bright red berries that can be steeped to make a tart, traditional beverage. These red-berried varieties are not toxic and were used historically by Indigenous peoples.
It is essential to distinguish these edible varieties from Poison Sumac (Toxicodendron vernix), a highly toxic plant formerly classified in the Rhus genus. Edible sumacs always produce clusters of red berries that stand upright, while Poison Sumac produces clusters of white or greenish-white berries that droop downward. Edible species generally thrive in sunny, dry areas, whereas Poison Sumac prefers wet, swampy environments like bogs and marshes.
Environmental Requirements for Growth
The Rhus genus demonstrates resilience, allowing its species to colonize diverse environments. Sumacs generally prefer open locations and thrive best when exposed to full sun, although many can tolerate partial shade. Full sunlight encourages the most intense fall foliage color, a trait for which many sumacs are prized.
The plants are particularly adaptable regarding soil composition, often flourishing in conditions challenging for other vegetation. They readily grow in poor, rocky, sandy, or disturbed ground, provided the soil is well-drained. Once established, most sumac species are highly drought-tolerant, making them effective for stabilizing banks and colonizing dry, open areas.