Toxicodendron pubescens

Toxicodendron pubescens, commonly known as Atlantic poison oak or eastern poison oak, is an upright shrub which can cause contact dermatitis for most people.

Description

The shrub grows to tall. Its leaves are 15 centimetres long, alternate, with three lobes on each. The lobes are usually hairy and are variable in size and shape, but most often resemble white oak leaves; they usually turn yellow or orange in autumn. The yellow flowers bloom from March to April. The fruit is about wide and greenish white.

Taxonomy

It is not closely related to the true oaks in the beech family, instead belonging to the sumac family. Other plants in the Toxicodendron genus, all of which contain dermatitis-inducing urushiol, include poison ivy, poison sumac, Western poison oak, and the lacquer tree.

Distribution and habitat

This species is native to the Southeastern United States from Virginia westward to Texas and Oklahoma.
Atlantic poison oak can be found growing in forests, thickets, and dry, sandy fields.

Toxicity

All parts of this plant contain urushiol, which can cause severe dermatitis in sensitive individuals. The risk of exposure may be reduced by learning to recognize and avoid this species and wearing clothing that covers the legs and arms. Contaminated clothing should be laundered before subsequent handling or use.
Effects of poison oak are similar to those of its close relative poison ivy. It causes severe itching, inflammation, and blistering.