Poison Sumac

toxicodendron vernix

Also known as: ["Poison Sumac","Poison Wood","Poison Dogwood"]

Family: Anacardiaceae Genus: Toxicodendron Category: Shrubs

Overview

A deciduous shrub or small tree native to wet, acidic environments in eastern North America, known for its potent urushiol oil that causes severe allergic reactions.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Sapindales
Family: Anacardiaceae
Genus: Toxicodendron
Botanical Name: Toxicodendron vernix

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: naturalized areas, woodland edges, or shaded garden beds
  • Suitable For:
    Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: high
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"3–6"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
  • Soil Type: Rich, moist, well-draining soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for shape or health.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates full sun but benefits from afternoon shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or overwatering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
expert only

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Avoid direct afternoon sun in summer; provide dappled light in hot regions; rotate plant for even growth.

Watering

every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.

Soil

moist, well-drained, acidic to neutral loam

pH: Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).

Ensure good drainage; maintain consistent moisture; enrich with organic matter.

Temperature

Hardy in USDA zones 3–7; tolerates cold temperatures but prefers moderate conditions (50–75°F).

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; adjust watering in extreme heat.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth, none in winter

Fertilize sparingly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; stop feeding in dormancy.

Propagation

Methods

Seed or root division; stem cuttings are less reliable.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Collect fresh seeds or divide roots.
  2. Sow seeds shallowly or replant divisions.
  3. Maintain moisture and warmth.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid conditions with indirect light for cuttings; consistent moisture for seeds.

Medium

Well-draining seed starting mix or sandy loam for root division.

Hormone

Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone may aid cuttings.

Timeline

Seeds may take several weeks to months to germinate; root division establishes quickly.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, trowel, rooting hormone (optional), seed trays or pots.

Quick Tips

Use fresh seeds for best germination; ensure divisions have healthy roots; maintain consistent moisture.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective removal of dead or crossing branches; shaping cuts to maintain form.

Pruning Plan

Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged growth to maintain health.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as needed; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size up from current pot; avoid excessive space.

Method

Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out roots if pot-bound; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot only when necessary, as the plant prefers being slightly root-bound.

Checklist

Check root boundness; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; minimal disturbance to roots.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce frequency in winter.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without saturation. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to direct water to the base, avoiding contact with foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or peat moss for moisture retention; ensure good aeration with perlite or sand.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; wilting in sudden temperature shifts.

Cold Stress

Leaves may curl or drop; growth slows; roots can be damaged if soil freezes.

Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from freezing winds; avoid overwatering in cold weather.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature leaf drop; reduced vigor in prolonged heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilization; cease in winter.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid fertilizing in late fall or winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Toxicodendron vernix may indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or underlying disease, though specific causes are not well-documented for this species.

Wilting in Toxicodendron vernix can result from water stress, root damage, or pathogenic infections, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired physiological functions.

Leaf spots on Toxicodendron vernix are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to chlorosis, necrosis, and potential defoliation if left unchecked.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, may occur in Toxicodendron vernix due to excessive moisture, poor drainage, or fungal infections, compromising structural integrity and nutrient uptake.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Highly Toxic

Cats are also highly sensitive to the urushiol oil in Toxicodendron vernix. Even minimal contact can cause severe dermatitis, leading to intense itching, skin inflammation, and discomfort. Cats may groom the affected areas, potentially ingesting the oil and exacerbating the reaction.

⚠️ Symptoms:
intense itching skin rash blistering excessive grooming lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots sap
⚡ Toxic If:

if touched

Prevent cats from accessing areas where poison sumac is present. If contact occurs, gently bathe the cat with a mild, hypoallergenic pet shampoo and rinse thoroughly. Seek veterinary care if the cat shows signs of distress or if the reaction is severe.
Dogs
Highly Toxic

Dogs are highly susceptible to the urushiol oil found in Toxicodendron vernix. Contact with any part of the plant can cause severe allergic reactions, including dermatitis, which may lead to intense itching, hair loss, and secondary infections if the skin is broken. The reaction can be systemic if the dog licks the affected area.

⚠️ Symptoms:
intense itching skin rash blistering hair loss licking or biting at skin
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots sap
⚡ Toxic If:

if touched

Keep dogs away from areas where poison sumac grows. If contact is suspected, wash the dog’s skin with a mild, hypoallergenic pet shampoo and rinse thoroughly. Consult a veterinarian if symptoms persist or worsen.
Humans
Highly Toxic

Toxicodendron vernix, commonly known as poison sumac, contains urushiol, an oily resin that causes severe allergic contact dermatitis upon contact with skin. The reaction is mediated by the immune system and can lead to intense itching, blistering, and inflammation. The severity of the reaction varies among individuals but can be particularly severe in sensitive individuals.

⚠️ Symptoms:
intense itching blistering skin inflammation rash swelling
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots sap
⚡ Toxic If:

if touched

Avoid all contact with any part of the plant. Wear protective clothing, including gloves and long sleeves, when working in areas where poison sumac may be present. If contact occurs, wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water immediately. Seek medical attention if a severe reaction occurs.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Poison Sumac dangerous to touch?

A: Yes, it is highly toxic and contact with its urushiol oil can cause severe skin irritation and allergic reactions.

Q: Where does Poison Sumac typically grow?

A: It thrives in wet, acidic environments such as swamps, bogs, and marshy areas in eastern North America.

Q: How can Poison Sumac be distinguished from other sumacs?

A: Poison Sumac has white or greenish berries that hang down, unlike the red, upward-facing berries of harmless sumacs.

Quick Reference
Family: Anacardiaceae
Care: expert only
Light: partial shade to full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during growi
Suitable For: ["wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Unknown
View
Smoke Tree
View
Sumac
View
Smooth Sumac
View