Field recognition of eastern poison oak: with emphasis on plants in Alabama

Eastern poison oak, Toxicodendron toxicarium, is a nonclimbing shrub whose leaves have three leaflets. The leaflets with their numerous round lobes resemble somewhat the leaves of some oaks in the white oak groups. The plant grows in nutritionally poor, sandy soil, and especially in dry pine-oak woodland. Deposits resembling black enamel paint can often be seen where plants have been injured. During winter, the U- or V-shaped leaf scars, the naked fruit stalks in female plants, and the sparse upright branches all aid in recognition. Other features can be useful in spring and fall. While poison oak and poison ivy are so closely related that the sensitivity of individuals and resulting dermatitis are not markedly different, accurate recognition is important in avoiding contact.