High Country Gardens
Rhus aromatica 'Gro-Low'
Best low-maintenance groundcover for erosion control on sunny slopes.
The 'Gro-Low' Sumac is an exceptional woody groundcover shrub, perfect for covering slopes and open areas. It grows to a modest height of 18 inches but spreads impressively wide, up to 8 feet. This adaptable variety thrives in nearly any soil type, including clay, and prefers full or partial sun. Its foliage is a lush, dark green in summer, transforming into a vibrant display of orange, red, and burgundy in the fall. It's known for being drought-resistant and low-maintenance once established, producing delicate yellow flowers in late spring.
$15.29
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
866
/ 2688
#866 in Bushes & Shrubs
Price vs Category Average
-61%
Below average
Mature Height
182
/ inches - feet tall
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking low-maintenance erosion control and weed suppression
- Landscapers needing reliable plants for harsh or dry environments
- Homeowners wanting dramatic seasonal color changes in their yard
Who should skip it
- Gardeners with limited space or strictly defined planting beds
- Designers prioritizing year-round evergreen structure in their landscape
- Individuals with known sensitivities to sumac or related plants
Performance breakdown
Erosion Control
Dense, trailing growth habit effectively anchors soil on challenging slopes.
Drought Tolerance
Highly resilient once established, requiring minimal supplemental irrigation in most climates.
Seasonal Visuals
Exceptional transition from lush summer green to fiery autumn foliage.
Soil Adaptability
Thrives in diverse conditions ranging from sandy loam to heavy clay.
Maintenance Ease
Requires very little intervention to maintain its tidy, low-profile spread.
Pollinator Support
Provides reliable early-season nectar sources for local bees and butterflies.
Key Specs
Mature Height
18 inches - 2 feet tall
Mature Spread
8 feet wide
USDA Hardiness Zones
4-9
Life Cycle
Perennial
Watering Needs
Low
Light Requirement
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade
Bloom Season
Spring, Summer
Fragrance Level
No Fragrance
Features
- Excellent woody groundcover for slopes
- Striking fall color display
- Evergreen foliage provides year-round interest
- Drought-resistant and waterwise
- Tolerates various soil types
- Attracts birds
- Low maintenance once established
- Native plant variety
What customers say
Consumers are overwhelmingly positive regarding the 'Gro Low' sumac's exceptional reliability and adaptability. The primary insight is its remarkable ease of establishment; customers report that plants arrive healthy and quickly thrive, even in challenging conditions like poor soil or intense heat. This low maintenance shrub is highly valued for its dependable performance as a robust groundcover, offering a resilient solution for difficult landscape areas. Its proven hardiness confirms its status as a top choice for sustainable, worry free gardening.
Know before you buy
Because this shrub spreads up to 8 feet wide, space them approximately 5 to 6 feet apart if you want them to eventually knit together to form a solid groundcover. Planting at this distance helps prevent soil erosion on slopes while allowing each plant enough room to establish its root system.
Yes, once established, it is highly drought-tolerant and requires minimal intervention. You will only need to provide supplemental water during the first growing season to help the roots settle in.
Absolutely. 'Gro-Low' Sumac is remarkably adaptable and thrives in a wide range of soil types, including heavy clay, making it an excellent choice for difficult planting sites.
Yes, it is a great choice for supporting local ecosystems. The spring flowers attract bees and butterflies, and the shrub provides cover and potential food sources for various bird species.
No, 'Gro-Low' Sumac is not considered pet-safe. If you have curious pets that tend to chew on garden plants, you may want to place this shrub in an area of your yard that is inaccessible to them.
While it can tolerate partial shade, 'Gro-Low' Sumac produces the most vibrant orange, red, and burgundy fall foliage when planted in full sun. More sunlight generally leads to a more dramatic color display.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
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$15