Question: After developing a poison ivy-like rash after gardening, and finding no poison ivy plants near where we were, I discovered …
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Question
After developing a poison ivy-like rash after gardening, and finding no poison ivy plants near where we were, I discovered this plant in our blueberry bush and surrounding area. It doesn't fit habitat; this very wet area as we have had a lot of rain in central Vermont, and the roof runoff is heavy here. Local landscaper was questioning whether this could-be poison sumac, and I'm curious of your thoughts. I have more photos that I can send you in a different correspondence if you need. Thanks!
Answer
Dear Mdwilliams, the plant in your photograph is a native, herbaceious perennial called Apocynum androsaemifolium (spreading dogbane). While I cannot say whether or not you are sensitive to it, I have witnessed 100s of people touching this species for making cordage without issue. Poison-sumac is a woody species with compound leaves that grows in wetlands and is usually 1-3 meters tall. Best wishes.
