Dwarf Sumac 'Prairie Flame' is a native deciduous shrub from eastern North America that earns its cultivar name through fiery autumn color and compact growth. This variety of Rhus copallinum grows 5 to 7 feet tall and spreads 6 to 10 feet wide, thriving in zones 4 through 9 with minimal fuss. It produces showy flowers in July and August, followed by the brilliant crimson foliage that makes it a standout in naturalized landscapes. Hardy, drought tolerant, and virtually carefree once established, it's a plant that works as hard as it looks.
Partial Sun
Moderate
4-9
84in H x 120in W
—
Moderate
Hover over chart points for details
Grown for its stunning seasonal transformation, 'Prairie Flame' handles harsh conditions that defeat most ornamental shrubs. The winged stems and dense branching create visual interest year-round, while the showy summer flowers give way to that signature blazing red-purple fall display. Its ability to thrive in shallow, rocky soil and poor drainage conditions, combined with low maintenance demands, means this shrub earns its place in the garden by asking almost nothing in return.
This shrub is primarily used in naturalized landscapes and native plant gardens, where its ability to spread by root suckers makes it valuable for erosion control on slopes and difficult sites. Its dense growth habit and low maintenance needs suit it to wildlife habitat plantings, where the flowers support pollinators and the seed-bearing fruit feeds birds through fall and winter.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Minimal pruning is needed; allow the multi-stemmed, open growth habit to develop naturally for the most visual impact. Remove any dead or damaged stems in spring, and thin overcrowded growth to improve air circulation if the plant becomes overly dense. If spreading via root suckers becomes aggressive, remove unwanted stems at ground level or treat fresh cuts with herbicide to control expansion.
Enter your ZIP code to see a personalized growing calendar for this plant.
“Dwarf sumac is native to eastern North America, where it occurs naturally from New York south through Alabama and Florida in open woodlands, along roadsides, and across dryish hillsides. The species has long been valued by native plant enthusiasts for its ecological role and seasonal beauty. The 'Prairie Flame' cultivar represents a refined selection bred to showcase the most vivid autumn color while maintaining the plant's renowned hardiness and adaptability across diverse growing regions.”