Q.I was growing a Sumac in a small area but it died. It also is quite fragile. I want to replace it with something hardier.
The area I want to grow something in is a small area and I just want some shade on a patio. The Sumac is a good size but I would like something that doesn’t split easily, but similar to a Sumac.

Certified GKH Gardening Expert
There are a number of small tree, large shrub options. Japanese maples are gorgeous specimen plants and come in all shapes, colors, and sizes. The small tree desert willow has a profusion of flowers in the summer. Flowering crabapples stay small and you've probably seen them blooming white, pink or purple-red in spring.
Here are more suggestions:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/small-trees-for-gardens.htm
Thanks for writing!