Poison sumac

What does Poison sumac look like?

A shrub or small tree of wet, swampy ground, with compound leaves of 7–13 smooth-edged leaflets paired along a reddish stem, and drooping clusters of white-green berries.

Is Poison sumac dangerous?

Carries the same urushiol oil as poison ivy and oak, often more potent — contact causes an itchy, blistering rash, and smoke from burning it is hazardous to breathe.

Commonly confused with

• Harmless sumacs: staghorn/smooth sumac have toothed leaflets and upright red berry cones

What should I do about Poison sumac?

Don't touch it; wash skin and tools promptly if exposed, and never burn it.