Toxicodendron diversilobum
Toxicodendron diversilobum[edit | edit source]
Toxicodendron diversilobum, commonly known as Pacific poison oak, is a plant native to western North America. It is a member of the Anacardiaceae family and is known for causing contact dermatitis in humans.
Description[edit | edit source]
Toxicodendron diversilobum is a deciduous shrub or vine that can grow up to 3 meters tall as a shrub and up to 30 meters long as a vine. The leaves are typically divided into three leaflets, which can vary in size and shape. The plant is known for its ability to change color with the seasons, displaying green leaves in spring and summer, and vibrant red or orange hues in the fall.
Habitat[edit | edit source]
Toxicodendron diversilobum is found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, grasslands, and chaparral. It thrives in areas with well-drained soil and can often be found along trails and roadsides. The plant is widespread in California and extends into Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia.
Toxicity[edit | edit source]
The plant contains an oil called urushiol, which is responsible for the allergic reaction known as contact dermatitis. Urushiol can cause itching, redness, and blistering of the skin upon contact. The severity of the reaction can vary depending on individual sensitivity and the amount of exposure.
Ecological Role[edit | edit source]
Despite its reputation as a nuisance to humans, Toxicodendron diversilobum plays an important role in its ecosystem. It provides food and habitat for various wildlife species. Birds and small mammals consume the berries, while deer and other herbivores browse the leaves.
Management[edit | edit source]
Controlling Toxicodendron diversilobum can be challenging due to its vigorous growth and ability to resprout from roots. Mechanical removal, such as cutting or mowing, can be effective but may require repeated efforts. Chemical herbicides can also be used, but care must be taken to avoid harming non-target plants.
Gallery[edit | edit source]
Related pages[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
Toxicodendron diversilobum[edit | edit source]
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD