The Fragrant Sumac, Rhus aromatica, is a small shrub, most commonly encountered on limestone uplands, occasionally on acidic sites. It occasionally reaches tree size. Fragrant sumac is a pioneer species, establishing rapidly from seed after heavy disturbance, particularly fire. Like other sumacs, it forms clonal clumps, but not as extensively as the other species. Fragrant sumac is a short-lived pioneer, which reproduces from seed or clonally via root suckers. Seed production is moderately abundant, and seeds are dispersed by birds.
Lifespan is about 20-30 years, though clones can live substantially longer. Fruit is important as winter bird food. This is an important deer browsing species. The fruits, steeped in cool water, yield a refreshing drink, like lemonade. Native Americans used the bark of all sumacs as an astringent, and leaves and bark can be used for tanning leather, due to the high tannin content.