Dwarf sumac (Rhus copallinum var. latifolia 'Morton' PRAIRIE FLAME)

Overview

The aptly named Dwarf sumac, specifically the cultivar Rhus copallinum var. latifolia ‘Morton’ PRAIRIE FLAME, is a superior choice for gardeners seeking dramatic fall color without the aggressive height of some relatives. This cultivar offers a more contained form, maturing typically between five and seven feet tall, making it highly versatile for defined landscape spaces. As a multi-stemmed, deciduous shrub, it features glossy, dark green summer foliage that ignites into spectacular scarlet tones as the weather cools.

Rhus copallinum var. Latifolia ‘Morton’ PRAIRIE FLAME is celebrated for its low input requirements and adaptability. It thrives in challenging, drier conditions once established, making it a workhorse in low-water or naturalized areas. While it spreads modestly by root suckers to form colonies, its compact nature keeps it manageable compared to its larger cousins.

This selection, introduced by the Morton Arboretum, delivers significant ornamental value throughout the growing season. Its architectural form, combined with the intense seasonality of its leaf color, ensures that the Dwarf sumac remains a focal point, particularly where low maintenance and excellent drought tolerance are priorities.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Anacardiaceae
• Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-9
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 5-7 ft
  • Spread: 6-10 ft
• Bloom Time: July to August
• Bloom Description: Greenish-yellow
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
• Water Needs: Dry to medium
• Maintenance Level: Low

How to Grow

Planting the Dwarf sumac is best executed in the spring or fall when temperatures are moderate, allowing the root system to establish before summer heat or winter chills arrive. Ensure the chosen location provides full sun to partial shade; consistent direct sun encourages the best fall color transformation for the Rhus copallinum var. latifolia ‘Morton’ PRAIRIE FLAME. It performs best in average, well-drained soils, tolerating dry conditions admirably once established.

Watering requirements are minimal once established; this plant is highly drought-tolerant. Overwatering, especially in heavy clay soils, should be avoided as it prefers dry to medium moisture levels and dislikes poorly drained sites. Fertilizer is rarely necessary; excessive fertility can sometimes reduce fall color intensity.

Maintenance for this shrub is low. If size control or shaping is desired, prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Be aware that the plant naturally spreads slowly via root suckers, which can be managed by occasional removal if you wish to maintain a singular specimen, or allowed to develop in naturalized settings.

Landscape Uses

The inherent toughness and vibrant autumn display make Dwarf sumac an outstanding selection for naturalized plantings where it can spread freely to form attractive colonies. Its compact habit compared to standard sumacs means Rhus copallinum var. latifolia ‘Morton’ PRAIRIE FLAME works well in slightly smaller spaces or mixed shrub borders where its texture and color can contrast with finer-leaved plants.

Massing this species on slopes is highly effective, leveraging its ability to stabilize soil while providing year-round structure. It excels in dry, informal areas, meadow plantings, or along woodland margins. Because this cultivar is sterile (a male plant), it provides seasonal interest without the concern of unwanted fruit drop.

Consider pairing the dense foliage and brilliant red autumn display with late-blooming, less aggressive shrubs or upright ornamental grasses that share similar xeriscaping requirements. The Dwarf sumac provides excellent year-round screening due to its dense branching pattern.

Standout Features

Flower Qualities

• Showy

Noteworthy Characteristics

Rhus copallinum provides large, compound, odd-pinnate leaves with shiny dark green leaflets that transform to flame red in autumn. This cultivar, PRAIRIE FLAME, is specifically noted for its compact size (5-7’ tall) and spectacular red fall coloration, offering a refined version of the native species. Its leaf midribs possess leafy ridges, earning related plants the common name winged sumac.

Tolerances

• Rabbit
• Drought
• Erosion
• Dry Soil
• Shallow-Rocky Soil

Potential Problems

Dwarf sumac, including the PRAIRIE FLAME cultivar, is generally robust, experiencing no serious insect or disease issues under normal conditions. Gardeners should remain aware of some susceptibility to common fungal issues like leaf spot, rust, and powdery mildew, especially in humid environments or if air circulation is poor. While rare, verticillium wilt can pose a threat in poorly drained soils or stressed plants.

To mitigate disease risks, always ensure optimal soil drainage, which is paramount for this species. If pest pressure from aphids or mites occurs, standard dormant oils or insecticidal soaps can provide effective control during the growing season. Proper spacing when massing plants will maximize air flow, reducing disease pressure on shrubs like Rhus copallinum var. latifolia ‘Morton’ PRAIRIE FLAME.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Dwarf sumac suitable for?

Rhus copallinum var. latifolia ‘Morton’ PRAIRIE FLAME is hardy and adaptable across USDA Zones 4 through 9.

How large does the Dwarf sumac grow?

This cultivar maintains a compact habit, typically reaching a mature height between 5 and 7 feet, with a spread ranging from 6 to 10 feet wide via root suckers.

What sun exposure does this shrub need?

For the best performance and most brilliant fall display from the Dwarf sumac, aim for full sun exposure, though it will tolerate part shade.

When does Rhus copallinum var. latifolia ‘Morton’ PRAIRIE FLAME bloom?

The small, greenish-yellow flowers appear later in the season, typically during July into August.

Conclusion

The compact stature and incredible, low-maintenance foliage color make Rhus copallinum var. latifolia ‘Morton’ PRAIRIE FLAME an outstanding landscape asset for difficult sites. This Dwarf sumac provides reliable structure and unmatched seasonal flair, especially in drier settings. Before purchasing, confirm your site falls within USDA Zones 4-9 and ensure you can provide full sun for maximized autumn effect.

Wildlife Benefits

While PRAIRIE FLAME is a male cultivar and does not produce the showy drupes attractive to winter birds, the dense structure of the Dwarf sumac offers excellent protective cover for small wildlife throughout the year. Birds and beneficial insects utilize the dense branching, particularly during nesting or harsh weather.

Companion Planting

Given the noted preference of Rhus copallinum var. latifolia ‘Morton’ PRAIRIE FLAME for dry, well-drained soils and full sun, it pairs excellently with other xeric, robust North American natives. Consider grouping it with plants that emerge later or offer contrasting finer textures, such as Prairie Dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis) or various native Sedums. Avoid planting near moisture-loving species, as Sumac tolerates dryness better than standing water.