October 26, 2025 – This plant has some of the most vivid, striking, and attractive fall foliage! I have never seen it for sale at any nursery or garden center, and I have never heard of anyone planting or cultivating it, but it thrives in Hopkins County without any help from gardeners! Found in shady areas, it is perennial, and a member of the pistachio and cashew family. Toxicodendron radicans is its scientific name, and it is native to Asia and North America.
All parts of the plant contain urushiol, a powerful skin irritant. Even dead, dry leaves and vines contain the “poison”, and will harm unprotected skin.
Enjoy the fall color, but be aware of its’ itchy, oozing red rash and blistering consequences of touching!
