Littleleaf Sumac (Rhus microphylla) is another multipurpose plant that was used for its dye properties and subsistence value.
The leaves and bark were soaked and used in the leather tanning process. And various colored dyes were made from different parts of the plant for dyeing wool.
According to oral histories from Esther Benally, Diné, and Hoskie Juan, Diné, sumac red berries (chiiłchin) were a winter food that was dried, stored, and used when there was no food available. These dried fruits were often used as a spice to flavor cooking. The ripe berries were eaten fresh when available and had a lemony flavor.
