Smooth sumac is very much like staghorn sumac, with large attractive compound leaves and an irregular growth habit. However, it lacks the velvety fuzz found on staghorn sumac. The large spreading branches grow in a picturesque irregular form. In July large upright clusters of greenish-white flowers appear. These are followed by red berries with small hairs. This large native shrub in the cashew family spreads by rhizomes and forms colonies. It is best for a naturalistic setting.