Also known as Pacific Poison Oak · Poison Oak · Western Poison Oak
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Pacific Poison-Oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum) is a woody shrub or climbing vine native to western North America, known for its urushiol oil that causes allergic reactio
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun but tolerates some shade.
Infrequent watering
25% intensity
Allow soil to dry between waterings; drought tolerant.
Well-drained, adaptable
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Tolerates a range of temperatures; prefers mild climates.
Low need
25% intensity
Rarely requires fertilization; thrives in average soil.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts of the plant contain urushiol, a skin irritant.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Pacific Poison-Oak sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, especially in its natural habitat where it tolerates drought. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Monitor soil moisture and adjust frequency based on environmental conditions and plant maturity. Deep infrequent watering is preferable.
Pruning of Pacific Poison-Oak should be done with extreme caution due to its allergenic oils. Wear protective clothing and gloves. Prune to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
It can be pruned to control size and shape, but avoid heavy pruning which can stimulate vigorous, hazardous growth.
Propagation is typically achieved through seed or cuttings. Seeds require stratification (cold, moist treatment) before sowing. Cuttings can be taken from dormant stems in late winter or early spring.
Success rates can vary, and handling all plant parts with extreme care is paramount due to urushiol.
Repotting is generally not recommended for Pacific Poison-Oak, as it is a woody perennial that prefers to remain undisturbed in its established location.
If removal is absolutely necessary, attempt to preserve the root ball and replant immediately. Wear full protective gear to avoid contact.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Pacific Poison-Oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum)
Where Pacific Poison-Oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Toxicodendron |
| Species | Toxicodendron diversilobum |
Similar in genus Toxicodendron
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
