Rhus vernix, L.

Form.—A shrub or small tree sometimes reaching a height of 10-15 feet; trunk usually branching near the ground and separating into a loose irregular head.

Leaves.—Alternate, compound, leaflets 7-13, oblong-obovate, entire, poisonous.

Flowers.—June-July; polygamous; small, yellowish-green, arranged in long drooping panicles.

Fruit.—Small, nearly spherical, glossy, dull white drupes in long, loose, drooping, axillary panicles; ripening in early autumn and persisting into the winter.

Bark.—Thin, streaked, smooth, covered with numerous raised lenticels.

Wood.—Soft, brittle, light yellow.

Range.—Ontario to Florida, west to Louisiana and Minnesota.

Distribution in West Virginia.—Rare, found in swamps at Cowen, Webster County and near Elkins, Randolph County.

Habitat.—Thrives best in swamps but may be found on moist slopes.

Notes.—Poison Dogwood, Poison Elder, and Poison Oak are other names of this species. This is one of our most poisonous plants and should be avoided except by those who are immune. It has no commercial importance.