It can be rather surprising to learn that all the sumacs (both poison sumac and non-poison sumac shrubs), along with poison ivy and poison oak, belong to the cashew family (Anacardiaceae). Also in this family, in addition to cashews themselves, are pistachios and mangos. All three of these foods produce allergic reactions in some people -- a fact that is perhaps easier to understand, once their connection with poison sumac is noted! Incidentally, included in my fall foliage pictures are images that show the beauty even of poison sumac in fall (which is not, however, sufficient reason to grow it!)
But don't let these associations scare you off from enjoying non-poison sumac: sumac shrubs offer outstanding autumn color, as my fall foliage pictures show.