PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Prefers partial shade to full sun; thrives in open wetland habitats with consistent moisture
Watering
Requires consistently moist soil; tolerates short periods of standing water
Temperature
Cold-hardy to frigid winter temperatures; requires sufficient moisture to avoid stress during extreme summer heat
Characteristics
- Leaf: Compound leaves with 7–13 oblong, waxy bright green leaflets that turn vivid red/orange in fall
- Flower: Small, greenish-yellow clustered blooms in upper leaf axils
- Stem: Smooth, grayish-brown bark with no thorns
Care Guide
Watering
Maintain constantly moist soil; supplement water during extended dry spells
Fertilization
No regular fertilization required. Natural wetland nutrients typically meet growth needs
Composted pine needle tea：Steep fully composted pine needles in water for 3 days; dilute 1:20 for root drench to maintain soil acidity without introducing excess nitrogenPruning
- Remove dead, damaged branches in late winter to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Wear heavy protective gloves and long clothing to avoid urushiol contact during pruning
- Avoid pruning during active growth to minimize urushiol spread via fresh cuts
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contact or ingestion causes skin irritation, vomiting, and diarrhea
Humans: Contains urushiol resin; contact causes severe allergic contact dermatitis in most people
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: N/A
