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].

Medicinal Information: Poison sumach has occasionally been used medicinally, though it is an extremely poisonous plant and great caution should be exercised. Any herbal use should only be undertaken under the supervision of a qualified practitioner. See also the notes above on toxicity. The plant has been used in the treatment of fevers, ague, ulcerated bladder, asthma and phthisic[257]. The plant has been used as a wash to treat foul ulcers[257].

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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'.
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