Species

groundcoverN. America Native

Autumn Amber Prostrate Three-leaf Sumac

The Story

Plant Bio

Rhus trilobata, or Skunkbush Sumac, is a deciduous shrub native to western North America, known for its three-lobed leaves and pungent aroma when crushed. It is exceptionally tough and drought tolerant.

'Autumn Amber' is a low-growing, prostrate selection that acts as a woody groundcover, reaching only 1-2 feet tall but spreading widely. It offers excellent amber-orange to reddish fall color.

Uses & Benefits:

This plant offers a unique, low, textured groundcover with attractive three-lobed leaves. Its main show is in autumn when the foliage turns brilliant shades of orange and red, lighting up dry landscapes.

Its wide-spreading, dense root system makes it an exceptional choice for erosion control on sunny, dry banks and slopes. It is a fire-resistant plant suitable for xeriscaping and defensible space.

The small spring flowers provide an early nectar source for native bees. The berries, though sparse on this cultivar, offer food for birds and small mammals. It provides good ground cover for wildlife.

SpeciesRhus trilobataSkunkbush Sumac

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

18 inches

Width

96 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low

Humidity

Low to moderate

Lifespan

Long

Native To

Western North America (species)

Toxicity

Non-toxic. Leaves have a strong odor when crushed.

Bloom period

Mid-spring – Late spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a full sun location with very well-drained soil.
Dig a hole slightly larger than the container.
Set the plant at the same depth it was in the pot.
Backfill with native soil, firming gently around the base.
Water well at planting, then only during prolonged drought.
Allow it to spread naturally with minimal intervention.

Pro Tip

Give it plenty of room to spread; it's an excellent, low-care solution for covering large, sunny, dry areas.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Plant on hot, dry slopes or in rock gardens where other plants struggle.
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
Appreciate its rugged, self-sufficient nature.

Don't

Don't overwater, as it is highly susceptible to root rot in wet soils.
Don't plant in a small, tidy border where its spreading habit is unwanted.
Avoid heavy fertilization, which can lead to weak, leggy growth.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tough, sprawling groundcoverExcellent for bank stabilizationDrought-tolerant rock garden feature

Companion Plants

Agastache rupestris Penstemon pinifolius Yucca filamentosa Hesperaloe parviflora

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Autumn Amber Prostrate Three-leaf Sumac questions

What zones can Autumn Amber Prostrate Three-leaf Sumac grow in?

Autumn Amber Prostrate Three-leaf Sumac is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Autumn Amber Prostrate Three-leaf Sumac deer resistant?

Yes — Autumn Amber Prostrate Three-leaf Sumac is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Autumn Amber Prostrate Three-leaf Sumac bloom?

Autumn Amber Prostrate Three-leaf Sumac typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Autumn Amber Prostrate Three-leaf Sumac need full sun?

Autumn Amber Prostrate Three-leaf Sumac does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Autumn Amber Prostrate Three-leaf Sumac drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Autumn Amber Prostrate Three-leaf Sumac handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.