Poison sumac
General poisoning notes:
Poison sumac (Rhus vernix; synonymy Toxicodendron vernix) is a native shrub or vine found in southern Quebec and southern Ontario. The sap of this plant contains the allergen urushiol. The chemical is released when plant tissue is damaged. Humans are highly sensitive to allergic reaction, although at least one exposure is needed for sensitization. Mild to severe dermatitis can result from exposure to poison sumac (Mulligan 1990, Gayer and Burnett 1988).
Nomenclature:
Scientific Name: Rhus vernix L.
Vernacular name(s): poison sumac
Scientific family name: Anacardiaceae
Vernacular family name: cashew
Rhus vernix L.
Geographic Information
Ontario, Quebec.
Notes on Poisonous plant parts:
Most parts of poison sumac contain the allergen except the pollen, anthers, xylem, and epidermis. Damage to plant parts releases the sap that contains the allergen (Mulligan 1990). The allergen occurs in the plant sap, which is found in all plant parts except the pollen, anthers, xylem, and epidermis. If the stems are damaged they can release the allergen, even in the winter. The roots are also dangerous (Mulligan 1990).
Toxic parts:
All parts, leaves, mature fruit, plant juices, roots, stems.
Notes on Toxic plant chemicals:
Urushiol, an group of alkylcatechols, is found in the sap of poison sumac. The allergen is nonvolatile and can contaminate clothing, tools, and domestic animals. The allergen can be hazardous for a long time if the contaminated object remains dry (Gayer and Burnett 1988). See poison-ivy (Rhusradicans) for additional information.
Toxic plant chemicals:
Urushiol oil.
Animals/Human Poisoning:
Note: When an animal is listed without additional information, the literature (as of 1993) contained no detailed explanation.
Humans
General symptoms of poisoning:
blistering
blisters, weeping
itchiness
temperature, elevated
