Habitat.—Fertile dry upland soil, preferring abandoned fields, borders of woods and fence rows.
Notes.—The wood of this species is sometimes used for sugar spiles and for the manufacture of napkin rings, cups, etc. The leaves are rich in tannin; the wood has little commercial value. Its beautiful foliage and red fruit spikes give it value for ornamental planting.
DWARF SUMACH
Rhus copallina, L.
Form.—A shrub or small tree often attaining in West Virginia a height of 15-20 feet and a diameter of 3-5 inches; trunk straight or angular, supporting a loose irregular crown.
Leaves.—Alternate, compound, 6-12 inches long, with petioles wing-margined between the 9-21 oblong or ovate lanceolate, nearly entire leaflets which are smooth and shining above and pubescent beneath.
Flowers.—July; polygamous; in terminal compact panicles.
Fruit.—Matures in late summer; small dry drupes in compact erect panicles, red, turning dark later in the year, the panicles finally drooping; not poisonous.