Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina) and Smooth Sumac (Rhus glabra)
Two species of sumac are widespread in Minnesota, Staghorn Sumac and the slightly more common Smooth Sumac. Staghorn Sumac bushes are larger, have fine hairs on their branches, and fuzzy fruit. The pictures below are likely a mix of Smooth and Staghorn Sumac.
The tart fruit of Staghorn and Smooth Sumac is edible, most commonly used to make a drink that tastes similar to lemonade. Leaves of Sumac turning brilliant red is an early sign of approaching fall.
Another species, Poison Sumac (Toxicodendron vernix) has noxious effects similar to Poison Ivy. It is found in Minnesota only in swampy areas in the eastern part of the state. In contrast to the other sumacs, Poison Sumac has smooth (not serrated) leaves and hanging clumps of fruit that are cream-colored.
Wild Honeysuckle (Lonicera dioica)
Wild honeysuckle is a native vine common throughout Minnesota. The pictures below show the interesting fruit of this vine first green, then later as it has ripened.
Bush honeysuckle species including Bell’s, Morrow’s, Tartarian, and Amur are non-native and regarded by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture as restricted noxious weeds.
North MN Outdoors 