Staghorn sumac is  can range from 3 to 33 feet tall, usually tree-like, but in thickets, and occasionally shrubby. It is strongly rhizomatous. The stem may reach  10 inches diameter. Twigs are stout, densely red hairy and 5/8 to 3/4 inches thick.  Leaves are alternate and pinnately compound.
 
Staghorn sumac flowers between June to July. Flowers are borne in clusters (panicles) of hundreds to thousands of flowers at the tips of branches. Flower clusters are up to 8 inches long and 2 to 4 inches across. Fruits are fuzzy, bright red to brownish-red, 1-seeded drupes (like a cherry or peach) about 1/6 inches across. Bees, wasps, and beetles are strongly attracted to the flowers. Some birds and small mammals eat the fruits. The fruits can be soaked in water to make a tart, somewhat lemony drink.  
 
Infomation from USDA Forest Service description.