PRAIRIE FLAME™ shining sumac has an glossy compound leaf that is quite shiny and is distinguished by a leafy ridge running along the midrib. Growing to 6' tall or more with a spread equal or greater than its height, shining sumac forms dense thickets. It is a large shrub for mass planting in open space; it spreads aggressively by underground stems. The greenish-white flowers are produced in late July to August and provide pollen for native bees. Fall color is crimson red.

This shrub is a Chicagoland Grows® selection. Chicagoland Grows® is a plant introduction partnership of the Chicago Botanic Garden, the Morton Arboretum and the Ornamental Growers Association of Northern Illinois formed to promote plant cultivars that perform well in northern Illinois. This variety was selected from the collection of the Morton Arboretum.