Prairie Flameleaf Sumac
Prairie Sumac, Texas Sumac, Lance-leaved Sumac, Tree Sumac, Limestone Sumac, Mountain Sumac, Black Sumac, Prairie Shining Sumac
Rhus lanceolata (Gray) Britt.
Whole plant
Family : Anacardiaceae
Longevity : Perennial
Origin : Native
Season : Cool
Prairie Flameleaf Sumac can be found growing in limestone and calcareous soils of the South Texas Plains and Edwards Plateau. It is a small tree or large bush that can grow up to 30 feet tall. The bark is dark brown or gray and smooth. The yellowish green to white flowers are found on stalks measuring 4 to 6 inches in lentgh and 2 to 3 inches in width. The leaves are 5 to 9 inches long and consist of 9 to 21 leaflets. The fruits are dark red and covered with tiny hairs. The fruit can be used to make black dye for clothing and can be used to make juice when smashed and added to water. Birds such as quail, prairie chicken, and pheasants, as well as white-tailed deer and mule deer, use the fruit as a food source.
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