Poison sumac
Toxicodendron vernix
N/A
About this plant
Poison sumac is a shrub or small tree known for its clusters of white or grayish berries and compound leaves with 7 to 13 leaflets. It grows in wet, swampy soils and is famous for causing allergic skin reactions due to its toxic sap. It is not used as an ornamental plant but is important to recognize for safety.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Toxicodendron
- Family
- Anacardiaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Sapindales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Eastern United States, Canada
- Distribution
- Native to eastern North America, commonly found in wetlands and swamps from the northeastern United States down to the Gulf Coast.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor
- Watering frequency
- Frequent
- Watering interval
- 1–3 days
- Humidity
- High
- Minimum
- -30 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 15-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 4-9
- Soil pH
- acidic (4.5-6.5)
- Soil type
- wet, acidic, poorly drained soils
Watering. Prefers consistently wet soil; avoid letting the soil dry out. It naturally grows in swampy or wetland areas.
Fertilizing. Fertilizing is generally not needed as poison sumac grows naturally in nutrient-rich wet soils. If cultivated, a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring can support growth.
Poison sumac is a wild shrub or small tree that grows in wet, swampy areas. It is not commonly grown as a garden plant due to its toxicity. It requires moist, acidic soil and shade to partial sun. Handling the plant requires caution because its sap causes severe skin irritation. Maintenance is minimal but involves avoiding contact and controlling its spread in natural areas.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Hard
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Clusters of white or grayish berries, compound leaves with multiple leaflets, and small greenish flowers in spring.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Toxic
- Weed potential
- Potentially invasive
All parts of the plant contain urushiol, which causes severe skin irritation and allergic reactions. Keep away from children and pets. Do not touch or ingest any part of the plant.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- High
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Poison sumac can cause allergic skin reactions in many people. The main trigger is its sap, which contains urushiol, a substance that causes itching, redness, and blisters. To avoid reactions, do not touch the plant, and wear protective clothing if you must be near it. Wash skin and clothes thoroughly if contact occurs.
Common problems
The main problem is accidental contact causing skin irritation. It can also spread aggressively in wetlands if not managed.
Uses
Primarily a wild plant with no ornamental or edible uses due to its toxicity. Important to recognize for safety in natural areas.
Notes
Avoid pruning or handling the plant without protective gloves and clothing. Do not burn the plant as smoke can carry the irritant. It is best left undisturbed in natural habitats.