Fragrant sumach is a sprawling, small to medium-size shrub with aromatic foliage and grows to a height of 1.50 m and 2 m wide. It grows best in fertile soil and full sun. However, it will tolerate dry or compacted soils, partial shade, and other urban conditions. It is the host plant for the Red-banded hairstreak butterfly.
Only female plants will produce dark-red berries that the birds love. The leaves have stunning fall colours with orange, red, purple and yellow hues.