Toxicodendron pubescens

Toxicodendron pubescens (syn. Rhus pubescens), commonly known as Atlantic poison oak, or eastern poison oak, is an upright shrub which can cause contact dermatitis for most people.

Description
The shrub can grow to 1 metre (3 feet) tall. Its leaves are 15 centimetres (6 inches) long, alternate, with three leaflets on each. The leaflets are usually hairy and are variable in size and shape, but most often resemble white oak leaves; they usually turn yellow or orange in autumn. The fruit is small, round, and yellowish or greenish.

Taxonomy
It is not closely related to the true oaks in the beech family, instead being more closely related to sumacs. It is closely related to the other plants in the Toxicodendron genus, including poison ivy, poison sumac, and the lacquer tree.

Distribution and habitat
This species is native to the Southeastern United States from Virginia westward to Texas and Oklahoma.

Atlantic poison oak can be found growing in forests, thickets, and dry, sandy fields.

Toxicity
All parts of this plant contain urushiol, which can cause severe dermatitis in sensitive individuals. The risk of exposure may be reduced by learning to recognize and avoid this species and wearing clothing that covers the legs and arms. Contaminated clothing should be laundered before subsequent handling or use.

Effects of poison oak are similar to those of its close relative poison ivy. It first causes severe itching, evolves into inflammation, non-colored bumps, and then blistering when scratched.