Toxicodendron requires meticulous handling due to its highly allergic nature. Adequate protective gear is essential when pruning or handling toxicodendron to avoid skin irritation. Additionally, isolate toxicodendron from other plants and areas frequently accessed by people and pets, as even indirect contact can cause severe reactions. Proper disposal and sanitation methods post-handling are vital to prevent unintentional exposure.
Watering schedule: Every week
Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
Toxic to Humans
| Care Difficulty | Hard |
| Lifespan | Perennial |
| Watering Schedule | Every week |
| Sunlight Requirements | Full sun |
| Soil pH | 4.5-6 |
| Hardiness Zones |
3-8
|
| Toxicity | Toxic to Humans |
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In pop culture, poison ivy is a symbol of an obnoxious weed because, despite its unthreatening looks, it gives a highly unpleasant contact rash to the unfortunate person who touches it. Still, it is commonly eaten by many animals, and the seeds are a favorite with birds. The leaves turn bright red in fall. Its sister species, Western poison ivy (Toxicodendron rydbergii), is not considered to be invasive in the United States, but is noxious in Australia and New Zealand.
Pacific poison oak is a woody vine or shrub found in the Western United States. Try to avoid this plant when hiking or camping, as the leaves and stem have a surface oil that causes an allergic skin reaction in 4 out of 5 people. A good reminder when it comes to pacific poison oak is “Leaves of three, let it be.”
The wax tree is a plant with yellowish-green flowers that is similar to the sumac tree. Because of the possibility of allergic reactions while handling plant parts, it is listed as a toxic weed in New Zealand and Australia. It is a city tree symbol in Kurume, Fukuoka, Japan.
Poison sumac (Toxicodendron vernix) is a woody shrub whose oil causes an itchy, burning rash. It's considered more allergenic than poison ivy and poison oak. The sap from this plant is sometimes used to make a black varnish for woodworking.
Western poison ivy (Toxicodendron rydbergii) is a perennial shrub that grows similar to a vine. It produces very small, cup-like white flowers in summer, followed by white fruit that ripens in fall. Fruit can remain on the stems all winter. The oils of the plant are highly toxic and even the slightest brush against this shrub can cause dermatitis outbreaks with a rash of itchy blisters. Grows in sun or partial shade.
Common issues for Toxicodendron based on 10 million real cases
