Marathon Pundit: Fall foliage of smooth sumac at Lake Michigan

The smooth sumac, a scrubby tree has a unique distinction. It's the only tree that this native in the 48 continental states Although east of the 100th meridian it can only be found in occasional pockets.

Sumacs, a member of the cashew family, are not considered attactive--except in autumn--when the leaves turn bright red. I photographed this grove at Fort Shreridan--on shore of Lake Michigan--a few days ago.

This tree also occurs in every county in Illinois.