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].

General Uses: The leaves are rich in tannin. They can be collected as they fall in the autumn and used as a brown dye or as a mordant[169]. An oil is extracted from the seeds[4]. It attains a tallow-like consistency on standing and is used to make candles. These burn brilliantly, though they emit a pungent smoke[4]. An indelible black ink can be made from the sap[226]. A varnish is obtained from the sap, it is black, lustrous and durable[19, 82].The final product is toxic[226]. Wood - light, soft, coarse grained[82]. It weighs 27lb per cubic foot[235].

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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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