Sumac or, also spelled sumach, sumak, soumak, and sumaq, is any one of about 35 species of flowering plants in the genus Rhus and related genera, in the family Anacardiaceae. Sumac grows in subtropical and temperate regions throughout the world, especially in East Asia, Africa, and North America.
 
The sumac bush, native to the Middle East, produces deep red berries, which are dried and ground into coarse powder. ... Ground sumac is a versatile spice with a tangy lemony flavor, although more balanced and less tart than lemon juice.