Poison oak is a hard plant to recognize at the different times of the year. It changes its appearance and deceives innocent hikers all of the time. The only way to be completely protected from poison oak is to know and be able to recognize it during the different seasons of the year.

FALL

During the fall, the leaves of poison oak turn to a shade varying from yellowish-red to yellowish-brown.

(Typical poison oak appearance during the fall season)

WINTER

During the winter, the leaves of poison oak fall off of the stems. But, don't be fooled. Even though the stems are bare, they are still poisonous. If you see three braches stemming from the base root area, then be careful. You may be staring poison oak right in the face. Just remember, the stems of poison oak are still poisonous without the leaves.

(Typical poison oak appearance during the winter season)

SPRING

During the spring, the leaves of poison oak are reborn and white apple blossom looking flowers sprout. But don't be confused with its beauty. It is still poisonous and will still infect you. Just remember this famous cliché, “Float like a butterfly. Stink like a bee.”

(Typical poison oak appearance during the spring season)

SUMMER

During the summer, the leaves of poison oak change colors again. This time they turn a maroon or dark reddish color. The pretty white flowers that it possessed during the spring fall off as well.

(Typical poison oak appearance during the summer season)

Images of seasonal poison oak taken from: http://www.knoledge.org/oak/identify.html

Home

Facts

Seasonal Change

Products\Treatment

Native American "Chumash" Usage

Quiz/Game

Web page made by Jason Miller