Eastern Poison Oak
Rhus toxicodendron
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Pl. 1356 — Rhus toxicodendron
Rhus toxicodendronRhus toxicodendronRhus toxicodendronRhus toxicodendronRhus toxicodendronRhus toxicodendronRhus toxicodendronRhus toxicodendronRhus toxicodendronRhus toxicodendronRhus toxicodendronRhus toxicodendronRhus toxicodendronRhus toxicodendron
IOverview
Overview
Eastern Poison Oak (Rhus toxicodendron) is a shrub, subshrub, or vine that thrives in the southeastern United States, from Alabama to Florida and westward into Texas. Native to parts of Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Georgia, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, it is known for its edible berries that are enjoyed by wildlife but can be toxic to humans if ingested or touched. This plant prefers full sun in dry to moist conditions, growing well in light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. It typically reaches a height of 0.6 meters and is distinguished by its distinctive three-leaf clusters, which often turn bright red in autumn, making it ornamental despite its dangerous nature.
Quick answers
What is Eastern Poison Oak?
Eastern Poison Oak (Rhus toxicodendron) is a shrub, subshrub, or vine that thrives in the southeastern United States, from Alabama to Florida and westward into Texas.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Eastern Poison Oak thrives in full sun and prefers soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It can tolerate dry to moist conditions but generally performs best with well-drained soil. This shrub, subshrub, or vine grows up to 0.6 meters tall and is hardy in zones 6-9. Native to a wide range of southeastern states, it adapts well to various habitats within its native range. Ensure the plant has ample light for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Habit
Shrub, Subshrub, Vine
Mature size
0.6 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Eastern Poison Oak for the first time
8steps
Start with Eastern Poison Oak as a simple, low-maintenance shrub for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A small Eastern Poison Oak plant or seeds, gardening gloves, and a trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with well-draining soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Ensure it gets full sun.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants or sow seeds directly in the ground. Space them about 1-2 meters apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for signs of pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when dry, prune in late winter or early spring, and mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches. Harvest leaves for crafts if desired.
- 8
Common mistakes
Avoid planting near walkways where it can cause accidental contact, don't plant in areas with sensitive individuals, and ensure proper disposal of cuttings.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:DyeInkMordantoilPest controlTanninVarnish
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 30 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Americas2 regions
native (2)BahamasGuatemala
Broader regions
native:New York, South Dakota, Vermont, Wisconsin, Alabama, Missouri, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Arizona, Arkansas, Bermuda, Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 1356efa2-6184-47a6-9926-933f6cad3837
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