Rhus vernix Poison sumach (Anacardiaceae) Deciduous shrub

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Rhus vernix
Poison sumach
Deciduous shrub
(1 Page of 5)

The Rhus vernix plant species is found in Eastern N. America - Maine to Vermont and Ontario, south to Florida, Missouri and Louisiana. It is a member of the Anacardiaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Poison sumach. Some home gardeners know the variety as R. venenata. Toxicodendron vernix. (L.)Shafer.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Rhus vernix
Common Name:  Poison sumach
Family:  Anacardiaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  This plant contains toxic substances and skin contact with it can cause severe irritation to some people[11]. The sap is extremely poisonous[11]. The sap contains 3-N pentadecycatechnol. Many people are exceedingly sensitive to this, it causes a severe spreading dermatitis. The toxins only reach the skin if the plant tissues have been damaged, but even indirect contact can cause severe problems[200].

Mature Height:  3   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Wooded swamps, often inundated for part of the year[4, 43, 82].

Cultivation Notes: Succeeds in a well-drained fertile soil in full sun[11, 200]. Requires a moist soil[14]. 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]. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus[200]. 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]. Dioecious. Male and female plants must be grown if seed is required.

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

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