Poison Oak

Overview

Toxicodendron diversilobum, commonly known as Poison Oak, is a deciduous shrub native to western North America's forests and grasslands. It typically grows 1-3 feet high, with a spread of up to 5 feet. Its leaves, comprising three leaflets with variable shapes, resemble oak leaves and turn a striking red-orange in fall. Caution: The plant contains urushiol, causing severe allergic reactions upon contact. It thrives in U.S. hardiness zones 5-9.