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Rhus diversiloba Western poison oak Deciduous shrub (1 Page of 5) The Rhus diversiloba plant species is found in Western N. America - Vancouver to California. It is a member of the Anacardiaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Western poison oak. Some home gardeners know the variety as Toxicodendron diversilobum. (Torr.&Gray.)Greene. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Rhus diversiloba Common Name: Western poison oak Family: Anacardiaceae Author: Torr.&Gray. Known Hazards: The plant contains toxic substances which can cause severe irritation to some people[1, 71, 200]. Mature Height: 2.5 Mature Width: Habitat: Thickets and wooded slopes in foothills, along streams, in washes and hedgerows below 1500 metres[71, 92].
Cultivation Notes: Succeeds in a well-drained fertile soil in full sun[200]. Plants do not require a rich soil[11].
The young growth in spring can be damaged by late frosts.
Plants have brittle branches and these can be broken off in strong winds[200]. Plants are also susceptible to coral spot fungus[11].
This species is closely related to R. toxicodendron[1].
Many of the species in this genus, including this one, are highly toxic and can also cause severe irritation to the skin of some people, whilst other species are not poisonous. It is relatively simple to distinguish which is which, the poisonous species have axillary panicles and smooth fruits whilst non-poisonous species have compound terminal panicles and fruits covered with acid crimson hairs[1, 4]. The toxic species are sometimes separated into their own genus, Toxicodendron, by some botanists[200].
Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus[200].
Dioecious. Male and female plants must be grown if seed is required.
For further Rhus diversiloba gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

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