The Smooth Sumac, Rhus glabra, is a shade-intolerant pioneer on heavily disturbed sites, and is particularly common along road and railroad rights-of-way. Usually in clumps of several to many individuals in a clone, rarely more than 25 stems in one clone. Sumac will often be found within the first year following fire. Smooth sumac is a short-lived pioneer, which reproduces clonally via root suckers. Seed production is moderately abundant, and seeds are dispersed by birds.
Growth is rapid. Lifespan is about 20-30 years, though clones can persist for centuries. Fruit is important as winter bird food. This is an important deer browse species. It is suited to group plantings in small to large yards. It is especially useful in attracting birds to naturalized yards.