Definition

Noun 1. A common nonpoisonous shrub of eastern North America: Rhus glabra is the scientific name for a specific species of shrub native to this region. It is characterized by its lack of toxicity, compound leaves with a waxy surface, clusters of green flowers, and red berries.

Usage Notes

• is a formal, scientific term (a binomial nomenclature) used primarily in botany, horticulture, and field guides. In everyday conversation, its common names are almost always used instead.
• It functions as a proper noun naming a single, specific species. The word is typically used in singular form.

Examples

• In a botanical text: " is often found in open fields and along roadsides."
• In a gardening guide: "For autumn color, consider planting ."
• In an ecological study: "The berries of provide an important food source for birds in winter."

Advanced Usage

• The name can be used in a taxonomic context to discuss classification: " belongs to the family Anacardiaceae."

Variants and Related Words

• Smooth Sumac: This is the most frequent common name for , referring to its hairless (smooth) stems, unlike its relative, staghorn sumac.
• Scarlet Sumac: Another common name, highlighting the brilliant red color of its autumn foliage and fruit.
• Sumac: The general common name for shrubs and small trees in the genus . is one specific type of sumac.

Synonyms

• Smooth Sumac
• Scarlet Sumac
• Common Sumac
• Vinegar-tree (a less common name, referring to the use of its berries)

Important Notes on Meaning

• Nonpoisonous: This is a key distinguishing feature. (smooth sumac) is safe to handle and its berries are used to make a tart, lemonade-like drink. This contrasts sharply with poison sumac (), a different plant that causes severe skin irritation.
• Compound Leaves: The leaves are composed of multiple leaflets arranged along a central stem (rachis).
• Paniculate Flowers: The green flowers grow in loose, branching clusters called panicles.
• Red Berries: The female plants produce dense, upright, conical clusters of fuzzy red drupes (berries) that persist into winter.

Noun

1. common nonpoisonous shrub of eastern North America with waxy compound leaves and green paniculate flowers followed by red berries