The More You Know…
Poison oak is found throughout the Puente-Chino Hills Wildlife Corridor–especially in oak woodlands and chaparral environments. You can identify it easily when the leaves are present because there are “leaflets of three.” Remember the saying “leaflets of three, leave it be.” That said, it is harder to identify without the leaves. The oil this plant produces can cause a severe skin rash because of the poisonous oil called urushiol.
Direct contact with the plant on tools, clothing, and even with pet fur can cause a contact dermatitis. Poison oak comes in many colors depending on the season… red, brown, green, and even the vine/branch itself can cause problems for you. When on the trail, as with roller coasters–keep your hands to yourself and off the plants if you can’t identify it positively.