I’m uneasy to recommend our native invasive sumac in a home landscape, but Tiger Eyes sumac (Rhus typhina ‘Bailtiger’), known as Tiger Eyes®, is far less aggressive (USDA hardiness zones 4-8). Its brightly colored cut-leaf foliage will definitely catch your attention in the summer. Leaves turn maroon-red in the autumn.

This small deciduous tree or medium tall shrub grows 6 by 6 feet high and wide (eventually to 10-12 feet high after 10 or more years). Short-growing Tiger Eyes is also a treasure planted in wide-based garden containers, perhaps mixed with low growing annuals, perennials, and/or vines. Lush tropical-like summer foliage and fall color blast ends with coarse hairy dark stems over winter.

As landscape plants sumac exhibits tremendous adaptability. This sun-lover thrives on neglect, at home in damp, nutrient poor soils. Seasonal foliage colors are more dynamic when planted in full sun. One-year established plants survive long dry spells, although leaves take on a haggard appearance.

Tiger Eyes is a sterile form and will not seed in and spread all over the neighborhood. Flowers are not significant. Tiger Eyes is less aggressive regarding suckering, but it does forms small plant colonies over time. It is not difficult to confine to a space. Prune it mercilessly to the ground whenever you feel the urge.