Poison sumac is a plant known for causing allergic skin reactions. Its contact can lead to an irritating rash due to an oily resin called urushiol, which is present in all parts of the plant. This plant belongs to the same family as poison ivy and poison oak, both of which also contain urushiol.
Presence in Ohio
Poison sumac grows in Ohio, though it is less common than poison ivy. It is primarily found in wet environments such as swamps, bogs, fens, and along stream banks, favoring wet or clay soils. In Ohio, it is observed mainly in the northeastern part of the state and in isolated bogs further south.
Identifying Poison Sumac
Poison sumac has several distinct features. The plant typically grows as a shrub or small tree, reaching heights of 5 to 20 feet. Its leaves are compound, with multiple smaller leaflets arranged along a central stem. Each leaf usually has between 7 and 13 leaflets, appearing in pairs along the stem with a single leaflet at the very end.
These leaflets are oval or oblong with smooth, untoothed edges and pointed tips. Young stems are often reddish, though this color can fade to gray or brown as the plant matures. In spring and summer, yellowish-green flowers appear in clusters. Later, during summer or early fall, poison sumac produces round, whitish-gray or cream-colored berries that hang in drooping clusters. This distinguishes it from non-poisonous sumac varieties, which typically have red berries that grow in upright, dense clusters.
Exposure and Management
Contact with poison sumac causes an allergic reaction due to its urushiol oil. Symptoms typically appear 8 to 48 hours after exposure and can include redness, intense itching, swelling, and fluid-filled blisters. The rash can also appear as red streaks or blotches, or black spots or streaks. The rash itself is not contagious, but the urushiol oil can spread from contaminated skin, clothing, or pets.
Immediate action is necessary if exposure is suspected. The affected skin should be thoroughly washed with soap and cool water as soon as possible to remove the urushiol. Also wash contaminated clothing and any objects that may have touched the plant. For symptom relief, cool compresses, oatmeal baths, or calamine lotion can reduce itching and discomfort. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams can also be used.
Seek medical attention if the rash covers a large portion of the body, is located on sensitive areas like the face or genitals, or if there are signs of infection such as pus or increasing pain. Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or eye swelling are serious symptoms requiring immediate emergency care. If the rash does not improve within a few weeks, or if itching becomes severe enough to disrupt sleep, consulting a healthcare provider is also recommended.