Toxicodendron diversilobum
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Poison Oak
Poison oak is a winter decidous, woody vine/shrub that can grow 2 – 13 ft. tall and wide.
The oils from the leaves and stems can cause severe skin irritation and an itchy rash, so do not touch without gloves!
This species grows in a wide variety of habitats from riparian zones to oak woodlands and dry chaparral, and has incredibly high habitat value for birds and other wildlife.
It is extremely variable in growth habit and leaf appearance, and spreads via rhizomes and seeds.
Lifeform:
Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade, Shade
Water: Dry, High, Light, Moderate
Other: Attracts Birds, Drought Tolerant
| Ecological Value | Excellent habitat plant for birds and other wildlife, fruit eaten by yellowhammer and squirrels, useful for protecting restoration sites |
|---|---|
| Historical Uses | Several indigenous tribes throughout California use it for a variety of uses such as tattooing, basketry, cooking tools, and medicine. |
| Distribution | Coastal and coast mountain ranges, Transverse mountain ranges, through the Sierra foothills, and in the Sacramento Valley. |
| Elevation | 0 to 5000 feet |
| Habitat | various habitats from riparian zones to dry chaparral |
| Communities | Chaparral, Foothill Woodland, Many plant communities, Valley Grassland, Yellow Pine Forest |