History: Shining sumac is native to eastern North America, although it can only be found in small pockets in Ontario. It has been used to create wildlife habitat and as an ornamental plant.
Why We Grow It: With a tendency to form groves, it is prized for its ability to provide habitat wildlife and, according to Steph, a prime environment for kids to build forts! The fuzzy red berries can be made into a rosy drink akin to lemonade and when dried the berries can also be used as a seasoning (Za'atar).
Canadian Hardiness Zone: 5
Soil Preference: Prefers loam but adaptable to different soil types
Growth Habits and Disease Resistance: Tree reaches 3.5-5.5m tall
Sun/Shade: Partial shade to full sun (approx. 6-10 hours of sun daily)
Flowering Time: July to August
Bloom Colour: Greenish-yellow
Ripens: August (pick before rain for best flavour)
