Pacific poison oak - Toxicodendron diversilobum (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Control)

Pacific poison oak

Also known as: Poison oak

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.”

Scientific classification

Species

Pacific poison oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum)

Maples, mangos, mahogany, citrus, and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Weeds

Weed or not

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub, Vine

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

50 cm to 4 m

Plant Height

60 cm to 2 m

Spread

Green, Yellow, Red

Leaf Color

Brown, Green, White

Fruit Color

White, Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Images of Pacific poison oak

Distribution of Pacific poison oak

Distribution Map

Pacific poison oak is native to Pacific North America, growing in shrublands, woodlands, and grasslands. It is not commonly cultivated but is sometimes used in habitat restoration in its native territory.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Thickets and wooded slopes in foothills

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Protection, Health, Money

Name Story

Pacific poison oak||Western poison oak: Pacific poison oak belongs to a genus of plants well known to cause severe skin infections after direct contact. Toxicodendron means “poison tree” while diversilobum means “different lobes” which is probably referring to its irregularly lobed leaflets that resemble oak leaves. Since it is widely distributed in western regions of North America, it is called pacific poison oak or western poison oak.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Toxicity

Pacific poison oak causes allergic reactions in 80% of people upon contact, with symptoms including inflammation, itching, and blistering. Cats and dogs are also at risk; poisoning typically occurs through ingestion or contact. Veterinary care is essential if pets show symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or dermatitis. Pacific poison oak is found in woodlands, grasslands, and forest environments.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Weed Control

Pacific poison oak is native to the Pacific Northwest. It is often considered a weed, as it frequently causes allergic dermatitis in humans when exposed via touch or smoke, although it has its place in the ecosystem for wildlife habitat and foraging. Pacific poison oak can be managed by removal with hand tools if the roots are removed, which is easier in the early spring or late fall. Herbicide can also be effective, with optimal application depending on the season. Stump application is most effective during the growing season, foliar sprays are best applied in the late spring, and basal application is effective throughout the year.

How to Control It

The best season for removing pacific poison oak is during the late winter and early spring, before the plant starts to bud and produce seeds. It is essential to remove this weed at this time to prevent the spread of new plants. Here are a few methods to effectively control or remove pacific poison oak:

Hand Pulling: Use protective gloves and gear to manually pull out the plant from the root level. Be careful to avoid skin contact with the plant as it can cause severe rashes.
Sheet Mulching: This method involves covering the area with cardboard or landscape fabric, then topping it with a thick layer of mulch. This suffocates the pacific poison oak, preventing its growth and spread.
Mowing Repeatedly: Regularly mowing the affected area will gradually weaken the plant and reduce its spreading. However, ensure you clean your mower thoroughly after each session to avoid spreading the plant to other areas.
Using boiling water: Pour boiling water over the roots of the pacific poison oak carefully. This will kill the plant without the need for harmful chemicals.
Goats: You can hire goats to eat the pacific poison oak, as they are immune to the allergic reactions caused by the plant. However, ensure to contain them to the affected area to avoid collateral damage to your desired plants.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Pacific poison oak

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Pacific poison oak thrives in wet-dry cycles and tolerates drought, needing minimal watering once established. Watering every three weeks suits its low-maintenance needs. Typically grown outdoors, pacific poison oak responds well to seasonal rainfall, affecting its dormancy and active growth periods.

Propagation: Pacific poison oak propagates in autumn and winter through cuttings and layering, with moderate difficulty. Success is indicated by new leaf growth. A key tip is to maintain consistent moisture for cuttings.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of Pacific poison oak

Distribution of Pacific poison oak

Culture

Toxicity

Weed Control

Care Guide for Pacific poison oak

PEOPLE ALSO ASK