Although Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina) is often mentioned in older literary works, it is quite rare in Pittsylvania County. The Smooth Sumac (Rhus glabra) is common throughout Pittsylvania; it seems that Staghorn Sumac is confined to the top of Smith Mountain — this has been my observation over the years as an amateur botanist. Some of the local old-timers refer to sumac plants as “shoemake.” Fortunately, the Poison Sumac (Rhus vernix) has not been reported as part of our Pittsylvania County flora.
Copyright © 2004 William T. Hathaway.