Rhus glabra ‘Laciniata’ – The Cutleaf Smooth Sumach
Rhus glabra ‘Laciniata’ is a dramatic, deciduous shrub or small tree (H 3–5 m) admired for its finely divided, fern-like foliage and dazzling autumn display. The deeply cut, elegant leaves emerge fresh green in spring and summer, before turning fiery shades of scarlet, crimson, and orange in autumn, creating a spectacular seasonal show. In summer, upright clusters of red fruit appear, persisting into winter and providing food for birds. Hardy (H6), drought-tolerant, and easy to grow, it thrives in poor or dry soils where other plants may struggle, making it an excellent choice for naturalistic, wildlife-friendly, or low-maintenance gardens.
Seasonal Beauty & Growth
Spring:
Summer:
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Dense, leafy growth forms a rounded crown.
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Upright red fruit clusters develop, adding bold contrast.
Autumn:
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Leaves blaze in vibrant scarlet, crimson, and orange.
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Fruits persist, enhancing the seasonal display.
Winter:
Structure & Form
Height & Spread: Typically 3–5 m tall with a spread of 2–3 m.
Form: Upright, branching habit with spreading crown.
Foliage: Deeply cut, fern-like green leaves.
Growth Habit: Fast-growing, spreading by suckers if not controlled.
Perfect for Various Landscapes
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Wildlife Gardens: Fruits attract birds and pollinators.
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Dry & Poor Soils: Thrives where many plants fail.
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Specimen Planting: Striking foliage and autumn colour make it a focal point.
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Naturalistic Borders: Blends beautifully with grasses and late-season perennials.
Growing Conditions & Care
Position: Full sun for the best autumn colour.
Soil: Well-drained; tolerates poor, dry, or sandy soils.
Maintenance: Very low-maintenance; prune to control suckering if needed.
Hardiness: Fully hardy (H6) across the UK.
Why Choose Rhus glabra ‘Laciniata’?
With its elegant cut foliage, vivid autumn colours, and wildlife-friendly fruit, this sumach brings drama and texture to the garden across the seasons. Hardy, tough, and adaptable, it is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking bold seasonal impact with minimal care.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.