Toxicodendron pubescens aka Poison Ivy

Toxicodendron pubescens is known as eastern or Atlantic poison oak. This deciduous shrub belongs to the sumac family, Anacardiaceae. It grows wild in the central and eastern United States. Its habitats include dry woods, sandy ground, and thickets. In North Carolina, it favors the coastal plain. It occurs less often in the piedmont.

This upright shrub usually reaches 2–4 feet [0.6–1.2 metres]. Some plants reach 10 feet [3 metres]. It has several stems and spreads through underground rhizomes. These can give rise to broad colonies. The smooth bark is light brown and bears lenticels. Slender, gray-brown twigs may have fine hairs or none. The buds have a soft, velvety surface. Leaves grow alternately and cluster near the stem tips.

Each compound leaf has three leaflets with an oak-like outline. Their edges may have lobes or teeth. The leaflets range from oval to elliptic in shape. They feel leathery and bear hairs on both surfaces. Their green shades range from dark to yellowish. In fall, the foliage turns orange to reddish-orange. Small flowers form loose clusters called panicles in March and April. Each bloom has five greenish sepals and five yellow-green petals. Its five stamens have green filaments and yellow anthers. Clusters of hairy drupes appear in late spring. These start greenish-white and ripen to a pale tan-white.

The shrub grows in full sun or partial shade. It suits sandy soil that drains well and tolerates dry ground. NC State lists it for USDA zones 5–9. Birds eat the fruit and carry its seeds elsewhere. Deer browse both the leaves and fruit. Its autumn leaves and fruit offer value in wild areas. Despite this wildlife value, NC State advises against most garden uses. Leaving it in the wild avoids needless contact.

All plant parts contain urushiol and pose a serious human hazard. Contact can cause redness, itching, swelling, and blisters. Clothes and tools can transfer the toxin to skin. Smoke from burning plants can also cause symptoms. Dormant plants still pose a contact risk. The plant is toxic when swallowed, not a food crop. Wear protective clothing when contact cannot be avoided. After exposure, wash skin, clothes, and tools with soap and water.