Atlantic Poison Oak
Toxicodendron pubescens (toks-ee-ko-DEN-dron pew-BES-ens)
Poison Oak is a native, deciduous, erect, low-growing shrub. It is a member of the Anacardiaceae or Sumac family. The shrub can grow up to 10 feet tall but usually averages 2-4 feet in height. Other common names include Atlantic Poison Oak and Eastern Poison Oak. The shrub is common to the coastal plains of North Carolina but rarer in the piedmont. They are native to the central and eastern United States. The genus name, Toxicodendron , is Greek and a combination of two words. Toxikos, tranlates to "poison" and d endron, meaning "tree." The species name, pubescens , means "covered with fine hairs." The shrub is found in dry and sandy areas in forests, natural areas, or thickets. Although much appreciated by wildlife, this species is best left in the wild. It is not recommended for most gardens. Poison Oak's roots are rhizomes, and the shrub often forms large colonies. Their leaves are green, alternate, and the upper and undersides of the leaf are pubescent. The leaves tend to crowd towards the ends of the stems. In the fall, the leaves are vibrant orangish-red. Flowers appear in the spring and are panicles of yellowish-green blooms. Late spring, clusters of pubescent greenish-white to tannish-white drupes appear. Birds are attracted to the fruits, and they spread the seeds. The stems are also pubescent, and the bark is smooth and light brown. P oison Oak contains the toxin Urushiol, which is also found in Poison Ivy and Poison Sumac. All parts of this plant are poisonous and will cause severe skin redness, itching, blistering, and swelling. Symptoms may occur through direct contact or by cross-contamination of clothing/tools that have been in contact with the plant. Contact with smoke from a burning shrub may also result in symptoms. It is never safe to handle this shrub in any stage of its growth or even when dormant. Always wear protective clothing to prevent contact with this plant. Thoroughly wash your hands, clothing, and tools with soap and water after exposure. The distinctive features of the Poison Oak include: alternate compound leaf with 3 Oak-like leaflets lobed or toothed margins finely pubescent stems and leaflets low erect shrubs found in dry areas
Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 67 attributes.