Toxicodendron pubescens P. Mill.

  • Family Anacardiaceae
  • Common names: poison oak, eastern poison oak
  • Synonyms: Toxicodendron quercifolium, T. toxicarum, T. toxicodendron, Rhus toxicodendron, R. toxicarum, R. acutiloba

    Shrub to 1 m (3 ft) tall. Leaves alternate, trifoliate. Leaflets usually hairy, variable in size and shape but often resembling white oak or post oak leaves, to 15 cm (6 in) long, turning yellow or orange in fall. Fruits small, round yellowish or greenish pubescent drupes.

    Distribution: The species is native to the southeastern U. S. westward to Oklahoma and Texas.
    Habitat: Most abundant in floodplain forests, but is often found in other habitats.
    Comment: This and other species of Toxicodendron are capable of causing a severe dermatitis, with itching and swelling of the affected parts. Toxicodendron is Greek for "poison tree"; pubescens refers to the hairy leaflets.
    NWI status: FACU

    Distribution in Oklahoma:

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    Last update: 9/20/99
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