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Identifying Characteristics |
Size/Form:
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Poison-oak is a shrub that reaches a maximum of 3' in height.
This non-climbing plant has subterranean runners. |
Leaves:
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Leaves are alternate with multi-lobed leaflets (three leaflets
per leaf). This is not an oak. Lobed leaves are oak-like. Leaflets are
ovate to elliptic, growing up to 4" long, and up to 2 1/2" wide.
Lobed or toothed margin. Leaves are a dull green and have hairs on both
sides. Young twigs may be pubescent but older stems become glaborous.
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Fruit:
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Drupe are spherical, smooth or lightly pubescent, and up
to 1/3" in diameter. Older drupes have shallow longitudinal grooves. |
Bark:
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Habitat:
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This shade intolerant species grows well in dry habitats.
This plant contains toxic substances and skin contact with it can cause
severe irritation to some people. |
