Beware of the Sumac!

Of all the “trash trees” that grow around the property, sumac is THE WORST! I call it poison sumac, but a fellow gardener said that actual poison sumac grows in swampy areas, so he said what I have in the yard is non-poisonous sumac. I am not sure of the validity of that statement. Regardless of the technicalities, sumac is poison to me. I have an EXTREME allergic reaction to the oils in this tree. This reaction is worse than poison oak or poison ivy.

Rule of Three Does Not Apply

As far as sumac goes, you cannot go by the rule of “leaves of three, let it be,” because this tree has more than just three leaves. It actually has fern-like leaves. When growing, it reminds my husband and I of a palm tree, so we dubbed this tree as the “West Virginia Palm Tree.” Another name we have for sumac is “upentego tree.”

It amazes me that they actually sell this tree. Who in their right mind would want this highly invasive tree on their property. I have taken much time and money to get rid of this tree from the perimeter of the yard. Because this tree grows wild on the state side of the fence, the offshoots still make its way into the yard… and it is NEVERENDING to try and get rid of it.

My Reaction

The horrible thing about the reaction I have, is that now I am not able to spend a lot of time outside while it is hot. The heat just makes me more itchy and the poison spreads like crazy. Not little bumps either. I get oozing, itchy, stinging welts, and this year, it actually got on my face to where my eye was swollen.

Take Action

If you ever come in contact with poison sumac, make sure you wash right away. Dawn dish soap is good, or use a scrub, such as Technu Extreme Poison Ivy and Oak Scrub. You have to do it right away though, because once you start getting welts, it is already too late. The most important thing to remember, which is why I got it so bad this year, is to WASH THE DOGS!

I watched the dog walk right over top of it, and it did not dawn on me that I should wash the dog. The oils stay on their fur and they can transfer it to you. And what happens when you hold the dog close to your face? You turn into Sloth from The Goonies.

Lesson learned. *sigh*

For information about poison sumac, go to PoisonIvy.org to learn more.