The fungus Phymatotrichopsis omnivora, which is found in the soil, is the cause of this condition. Tipping the sumacs branches like red candle flames, the berries, called drupes, ripen in autumn and gradually turn dark red as winter sets in. Sumac is rich in a variety of nutrients and antioxidant compounds. Water alone will not remove urushiol oil from your pet's fur. The fruit and leaves of the poison sumac plant contain urushiol, an oil that causes an allergic rash upon contact with skin. } There are several other species of sumac tree found in Europe, Asia, and Africa. But staghorn sumac is not poisonous. Urushiol is present in dead plant parts and can be inhaled if plants are burned. . } Desserts and drinks also can be dressed with sumac as a syrup. We have a bunch of trees I have been told are African Sumac. Im a zookeeper, and I want to use the branches as perching for an arboreal porcupine. We use cookies to personalize content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyze our traffic. What kind of tree does poison sumac come from? The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". This can cause existing plants and small shrubs in the area to wither. } African sumac is not resistant. It is important to immediately wash your skin with soap and water to remove as much urushiol as possible before absorption. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. Its fine textured foliage varies from pale green to deep olive-green and has a resinous smell when crushed. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. Place into a strainer and sift. Poisonous plants contain toxic compounds that can injure animals. Nerium oleander is a native of northern Africa that prefers a dry, warm climate. @media screen and (min-width: 769px) and (max-width: 992px) { to learn about our product offerings and receive more helpful tips for stopping invasive sumac. Also, suckers make the tree look extremely untidy and can cause them to look uneven. Its leaves are lance-shaped and grow 4 to 10 inches long with a bright green color. Sumacs are identified by their fern-like pinnate leaves, conical clusters (panicles) of white or green flowers, and fuzzy red berries. display: block; Remove and burn the detritus. There are thirty-five species of sumac trees found in North America. How do you keep sumac trees from spreading? The best results have been obtained using topical cortisone to treat the rash. http://www.bobthompson.me/2018/01/november-2017-including-vacation-in.htmlhttps://e360.yale.edu/features/small-pests-big-problems-the-global-spread-of-bark-beetles, Diamond Mowers Community: Customer Testimonials, Diamond Mowers Community: Employee Spotlight, Diamond Mowers Community: Dealer Spotlight. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Are Blue Star Junipers Poisonous to Dogs. Sumac rash is not contagious in the traditional idea of an infectious disease. African sumac, which is actually the same genus as poison oak, is considered poisonous; it may cause milder but similar symptoms to those allergic to it. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. Sumac is often put into Za-atar as an ingredient. display: block; Bentoquatam absorbs urushiol, preventing or lessening an allergic reaction. Normally wild animals arent susceptible to plants like poison ivy. Image source: tcpermaculture.blogspot.com. If you need to work with poison sumac in your garden, always wear protective clothing: long . Examples of environmental damage caused by sumac include: If gone unchecked, sumac can quickly outgrow its area and overtake and displace other vegetation. So all parts of the tree contain the urushiol oil to which. Poison Sumac, or Toxicodendron vernix, is a common North American plant that causes skin irritation to people.Like its better-known cousin poison ivy, the green leaves of poison sumac sure to put a damper on an otherwise pleasant camping trip or another outdoor excursion. Beginners and experts alike should feel free to post anything that helps people learn more about plants and plant sciences! According to Cal Poly, the tree. Poisonous plants contain toxic compounds that can injure animals. Sudan grass and sorghums are also cyanogenetic plants. What should I do? If this is not allowed, you can douse the plant in herbicide and bury it in a hole that is at least three feet deep. Chop off trespassing suckers, shoots and stems as close to the ground as possible. The oozing blisters don't spread the rash because they don't contain urushiol. African sumac trees (Rhus lancea) are highly drought-tolerant and grow as shade trees in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 8 through 10. Symptoms of a poison sumac rash appear 8-48 hours after exposure and can last for weeks. Symptoms include vomiting diarrhea and tremors. POPPY . You also can use a dehydrator. I think my dog might have eaten african sumac. Soak five to eight clusters in eight cups of room-temperature water, for a few hours. What kind of fungus does African sumac have? The rash and inflammation may appear within a few hours or up to forty-eight hours after contact. The most prominent feature is the clusters of bright red berries that top the trees in the late summer and early fall. Not only is it organic and healthy, but we can forage certain varieties for snacks, meals, drinks and spices. African sumacs are poisonous to humans. My dog ate african sumac. All of these plants contain urushiol, an oil that absorbs rapidly into the skin, causing an allergic reaction in 12 to 48 hours in susceptible individuals. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Poison sumac causes a painful, long-lasting rash that is difficult to treat. Non-poisonous relatives of poison sumac do not have red stems. In addition, the tiny green flowers that they come to visit has very little visibility to gardeners and may not even be noticed for all the bee trouble. While the roots are relatively shallow and may only reach about 10 inches underground, many sumac species tend to spread rapidly. Identification African sumac, which is actually the same genus as poison oak, is considered poisonous; it may cause milder but similar symptoms to those allergic to it. Poison sumac ( Toxicodendron vernix) is a native plant that grows exclusively in very wet or flooded soils, usually in swamps and peat bogs. Poison Sumac | ASPCA Poison Sumac Additional Common Names: Similar: Poison Ivy, Poison Oak Scientific Name: Toxicodendron species Family: Anacardiaceae Toxicity: Non-Toxic to Dogs, Non-Toxic to Cats, Non-Toxic to Horses Toxic Principles: Urushiol Clinical Signs: Allergic dermatitis in humans, usually not a problem in animals. The sumac family (genus Rhus) is a genus of shrubs and small trees that live in temperate and subtropical zones. Without the vegetation they depend on for survival, animals native to the region may have to look elsewhere for food. If youve spotted the telltale signs of invasive sumac, its important to act quickly. By doing this early in the season, there is less chance of mold or insects. White Sumac. The African sumac is a poor choice for planting next to a sidewalk or driveway, if you plant a female tree. This plant is most often found around wetland edges in the eastern part of the state. Gardeners should never handle the tree without gloves and keep children away from the plant. By blocking the sunlight, sumac trees may also prevent new plants and vegetation from growing. The very genus name of poison sumac indicates its toxic nature. Certain animals may be more allergic and will show symptoms similar to human symptoms. African sumacs are not for those who want to keep a well manicured lawn. Barkcloth fig (ficus natalensis) Bay Tree Leaves green and dried. .hhcmp640434353aca4 { Most sumac trees are not poisonous and can be enjoyed for their wonderful foliage and fruit. This would present as redness, swelling, itching, and burning of the skin. Poison sumac. All parts of a poison sumac plant are poisonous and the oils remain active even after the plant dies. Staghorn sumac. But as far as I can tell, that refers to poison oak and poison sumac, which are not in the same group as African Sumac trees. How To Ensure Your Livestock Survive The Winter, 8 Foolproof Ways To Heat Your Home When The Powers Out. Clip at the base of the cluster early in the season with some sort of pruning shears. Suckers or water sprouts abundantly grow from African sumacs. The following table contains a list of plants known to poison animals in the United States. In the fall, sumac trees and shrubs turn brilliant autumn shades of red, orange, or purple. Are African sumac trees poisonous to animals? Sumac shrubs provide intriguing visuals throughout most of the year, whether they're growing along roadsides or planted as garden accents. They feast on these with no apparent ill effects. Symptoms of poisoning include vomiting diarrhea drooling shaking tremors seizures and death. Lay sumac out on newspaper, with lots of air flow. 2 Many birds, including quail, treat the berries as an emergency food source in winter. Answer: Yes you should take your dog to the vet immediately if they ingest any part of the african sumac tree. All three plants produce pale fruits, ranging from white to greenish tan or yellow. } Should I be worried? There are numerous types of sumac trees, including evergreen and deciduous plants. Even the poisonous species have beautiful fall color. Also, each stem on the poison sumac plant has a cluster of leaflets with smooth edges, while harmless sumac leaves have jagged edges. Urushil irritates the skin and mucous membranes of people. A tiny amount of urushiol from the sap of poison sumac on your pet's fur is sufficient to give you a severe rash after you touch your pet. African sumacs are not for those who want to keep a well manicured lawn. Poison Sumac is a shrub or tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall or even taller in some cases. 1 Are African sumac trees poisonous to animals? It also has a high fire resistance and is used as a hillside stabilizer in wildfire-prone areas across southern California. display: block; What should I do if my dog eats african sumac? What are the cons of planting an African sumac tree? Poison sumac has clusters of white or light-green berries that sag downward on its branches, while the red berries of harmless sumac sit upright. . Urushiol, therefore, uses the bodys systems against itself to create an allergic, inflammatory response. Fruit Drop The spot where you want to plant a tree will make a difference. Non-poisonous sumac, in contrast, has red berries that grow in an upright, conical shape. Are African sumac trees poisonous to animals? Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. Answer: The best way to prevent your dog from eating african sumac is to keep them away from the tree. } Poison sumac grows in wet, swampy and heavily wooded areas, whereas the native staghorn sumac grows in dry regions, often in poor soil where other plants don't survive. Government of Ireland Masters Scholarships 2023 + MBA Entrance Scholarships at Ryerson University, Canada 2023, 2023 MasterCard Fully Funded African Scholarships at University of California, Berkeley, How Much Health Points Does A Wither Have, How Do You Donate Food And Medicine To Camp Rdr2, Proudly powered by Newspack by Automattic. are african sumac trees poisonous to animals. Whereas poison sumac is known to botanists as Toxicodendron vernix, staghorn sumac is classified as Rhus typhina. Deciduous Trees; Desert Trees; Evergreen Trees; Flowering Trees; Fruit Trees; Palm Trees; Tropical Fruit Trees . The most obvious difference is that poison sumac has white berries, not red berries. No, African sumac [Rhus lancea] isn't poisonous to animals. Whether you are new to foraging or an experienced pro, you are bound to have an adventure foraging for sumac. The most commonly eaten parts of sumac plants are the ripe red berries. This condition results in the wilting of the branches, yellowing of the leaves and death of the tree. .vtujl640434353add2 { Apple. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Written by: Kristen Duever How-To 2 Comments.WP-PrintIcon{margin-bottom:-3px}Print This Article, Staghorn sumac. Also known as Tanners sumac or Sicilian sumac, this species has a number of historical practical uses. You consent to our cookies if you continue to use our website. Some plants that poisonous to goats are oleander, wild cherry, and lilacs. Poison sumac is found in wet and swampy areas in the United States. Image source: tcpermaculture.blogspot.com. The toxins in poisonous plants . If poison sumac is burnt, the smoke irritates the lungs causing fluid in the lungs and inflammation that can be fatal. The poison sumac plant (Toxicodendron vernix) is the most dangerous, as it can cause severe skin irritation and allergic reactions. display: block; In the fall, sumac trees and shrubs turn brilliant autumn shades of red, orange, or purple. While poison ivy is usually a vine or small shrub, poison sumac can be either a shrub or a tree. The notion that the rash is contagious arose because the oils remain on the persons skin or clothing and can be transferred to other people or animals through direct contact. You can even lick your fingers to see if it has the tart taste. Identification Poison sumac is a shrub or small tree differentiated from the common sumac, staghorn sumac (Rhus. According to the University of Arizona, African sumac trees are evergreen trees that came to the United States from South Africa. Poison sumac secretes an oil known as urushiol, which is highly irritating and toxic. Leave them overnight, or until the water turns red. Prairie sumac is sometimes planted because of its attractive autumnal colors. Smooth Sumac has none of the hair on the leaves. Invasive sumac comes in a variety of different species however, you can generally identify sumac based on the following traits: Photo Credit: https://www.siteone.com/en/71859b-rhus-typhina-staghorn-sumac/p/574723. Do not under any circumstances burn the plant you have cut down. You also can grind in a coffee grinder. Yes, some varieties are poisonous, but many are not, and its not difficult to distinguish them. Sumac trees have been given a bad reputation because of one tree in the species. Your email address will not be published. First, it is not a great idea to forage for sumac along roads or highways, even though the bushes are often full of fruit. Poison sumac's leaves may have anywhere from seven to 15 leaflets, arranged in pairs along the stems. It interacts with dendritic cells (also called cells of Langerhans) of the immune system. While bees are generally beneficial insects to yards, hundreds of bees attracted to one ornamental tree can not only become a problem but can be fatal if you have an allergy to bee stings. Also check for irritation and swelling of mouth, lips . Late winter ushers in African sumac's blooming period. This tree has inconspicuous flowers that appear in summer. Urushiol is made up of several cytotoxic oils. Poison sumac (T. vernix) is the least common of Virginia's Toxicodendron species. } Same as in spring . Poisonous species of lupine are toxic from the time they start growth in spring until they dry up in fall. Over-the-counter remedies like calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream may temporarily take care of the itch. display: block; Good Evergreen Trees to Plant in a Front Yard in Full Sun, Easy-to-Care-for Ornamental Trees for Landscape, Missouri Botanical Gardens: Verticillium Wilt, New Mexico State University: Phymatotrichum Root Rot. The berries themselves can be used to make a spice, sometimes a tea. Quick Answer: Are African Sumac Trees Poisonous To Dogs. You should carefully remove your clothing, trying to minimize contact with the outer layers that had contact with the urushiol. The individual that has been exposed to poison sumac will have painful swollen lymph nodes. Is the staghorn sumac plant poisonous to humans? Your clothing should be washed in hot water with a detergent that removes oils. Poison Sumac. If you are interested in only growing native plants due to their greater ability to adapt to local climates, you may want to avoid an African sumac. Urushiol is extremely potent; the tiniest amount can produce a nasty rash. Za-atar combines sumac and other spices and herbs. When sumac grows rampant and begins to destroy vegetation and land, it can disrupt the surrounding wildlife's natural ecosystem. Poison sumac is a shrub or small tree differentiated from the common sumac, staghorn sumac (Rhus typhina) growing along U.S. highways and roads in USDA zones 4 through 8, by its leaves and berries. The difference between poison and harmless sumac is most noticeable in the berries on the two plants. Sumac refers to approximately 35 species in the genus Rhus, a member of the Anacardiaceae flowering plant family. Hairless animals may be more prone to allergic reactions. How tall does a African sumac tree get? African sumac trees have a thick, lush canopy, which is good for a shade tree. These berries are also used as a salad topping, and you can include them in your favorite dressings. Some doctors prescribe oral cortisone to counteract the inflammation and swelling of the lymph nodes. Their fur protects their skin from contact with the oils, and some animals can even eat the plant without suffering ill effects. Every part of the tree contains urushiol oil, which causes an allergic reaction to skin. Many sumac trees are non-toxic. This results in the production of cytokines ( inflammatory substances) that attack the skin cells. Uncategorized. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. The African sumac, for example, is usually a tall tree that can reach as high as 25 feet tall and lasts 50 to 100 years. Ok in moderation. I'd avoid planting it where puppies might be tempted to nibble on the foliage or berries it produces. Botany is the scientific study of plants, including their biology, physiology, structure, genetics, ecology, distribution, pathology, and classification. You should know about the disadvantages of African sumacs before you consider planting one. I know the ones Ive encountered in Maine and Florida are edible. Skin contact with the oil of a poison sumac plant leads to an itchy, burning allergic skin reaction. Poison ivy and Western poison oak may be found as a climbing vine or a 3- to 10-foot-tall shrub. Aside from the fact that displaces native plants, and forms solid stands of itself, as a landscape plant it's just a . Based in Connecticut, Marie-Luise Blue writes a local gardening column and has been published in "Organic Gardening" and "Back Home." : Often used to create a hedge, the fast-growing evergreen sumac is most commonly found in the southwest U.S. : Dense and sweet-scented, fragrant sumac grows low to the ground and often forms thickets. However, the rash can get worse if it becomes infected. All Rights Reserved. but the stems and especially the carbohydrate-rich roots are much more poisonous. Antihistamine pills can also help with the itching. Advice youll never hear from the mainstream media. Poison sumac berries are flattish, waxy and grow separately, while the red berries of staghorn sumac are fused together. Dead poison sumacs must be treated with as much caution as live trees. African sumacs produce these fruits in the fall. Trees and shrubs in the genus Rhus grow between 3 and 33 ft. (1 10 m). Do goats eat animals or plants? Prune just after the plants finish flowering in late summer. } ground sumac spilled from a spice jar - sumac tree stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images Poisonous:No. Poison sumac will grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 2 through 9, while poison ivy is found in USDA zones 5 through 10 and western poison oak in USDA zones 5 through 9. But staghorn sumac is not poisonous. Middle Eastern chefs use sumac as a topping for fattoush salad, and are often sprinkled on hummus to add both color and a zesty flavor. : As a medium to large shrub, prairie sumac is found across North America. Be aware that urushiol can rub off on inanimate objects, such as your clothes. Yes, some varieties are poisonous, but many are not, and it's not difficult to distinguish them. Invasive sumac can thrive in various soil types and has low moisture requirements. The animals should be washed thoroughly using a degreasing shampoo and warm water. Also, each stem on the poison sumac plant has a cluster of leaflets with smooth edges, while harmless sumac leaves have jagged edges. Native staghorn sumac bears bright red berries in an upright position, while poison sumac has yellowish berries that hang down. The African sumac is a poor choice for planting next to a sidewalk or driveway, if you plant a female tree. If fact, it is rich in its contributions to the environment. They Grow Everywhere Even slight contact, like brushing up against the leaves, can leave the oil behind. Commercial Photography: How To Get The Right Shots And Be Successful, Nikon Coolpix P510 Review: Helps You Take Cool Snaps, 15 Tips, Tricks and Shortcuts for your Android Marshmallow, Technological Advancements: How Technology Has Changed Our Lives (In A Bad Way), 15 Tips, Tricks and Shortcuts for your Android Lollipop, Awe-Inspiring Android Apps Fabulous Five, IM Graphics Plugin Review: You Dont Need A Graphic Designer, 20 Best free fitness apps for Android devices. Am I gonna give my porcupine a weird rash? Learn which plants thrive in your Hardiness Zone with our new interactive map! Sumac has upright fruit clusters, usually red and covered in a velvet fuzz. Swamp Maple. } } Blooms: Blooms in summer. The distinctive spikes of sumac berries are a common sight in winter, persisting long after other trees and shrubs have fallen bare. My dog ate a leaf from an african sumac tree. In the fall, all the sumacs are beautiful, with foliage colors of magnificent maroon to red and oranges and touches of yellow. Wear protective clothing, including gloves, thick or water-proof clothing, goggles, a face mask, and boots. Some people say sumac trees are poisonous, and others say they are not. Studies have shown animals in labs have developed issues with poison ivy, so I dont want to give an animal furniture if it could be an issue. Its . Now, however, we are getting back to discovering the truth behind this plant. Yes, some varieties are poisonous, but many are not, and its not difficult to distinguish them. This tree can grow to 40 feet and consumes a fair amount of water. You need to be aware of this when you eat sumac for the first time. .hhcmp640434353aca4 { While very common, staghorn sumac isnt dangerous to most people. Early research suggests it may be beneficial for blood sugar control and relief of exercise-induced muscle pain. In addition, African sumacs tend to lose leaves throughout the year without any reason. The dried fruits are used in spices, the leaves and bark have been used in the leather tanning process, and various dyes can be made from different parts of the plant. The only way to avoid this problem is to find plants that are naturally resistant to this fungus. One of these is known as poison sumac and releases an oil known as urushiol, which is highly toxic, causing a severe rash. In contrast, poison sumac has smooth leaves and hairless stems. Spray the stems and leaves of the poisonous plant liberally. Despite growing up in eastern North Carolina and living for years in eastern Virginia, I've never seen poison sumac in the wild. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Many of these trees, bushes or shrubs won't be attractive to your horse. The tree drops its leaves when it is water stressed, has a fungal disease like root rot or from being over fertilized. Garlic Planting Secrets Of Fall Gardeners, 7 Startling And Life-Changing Health Benefits Of Beets, Autumn Leaves: Miracle Mulch For Your Spring Garden, Natural Japanese Beetle Repellants For Your Garden, 10 Flowers That Will Attract Colorful Butterflies To Your Garden, 4 Easy Winter Tasks For An Abundant Spring Garden, Desert or little leaf Sumac, Rhus Microphyllia. Verticillium wilt is found in the soil of tropical and temperate regions, especially where summers do not become too hot, reveals the Missouri Botanical Garden. Consider this if you want to use this tree as a wind break. How can you tell if a sumac tree is poisonous? Only humans suffer an allergic response -- urushiol does not affect wild animals and pets. African Sumac Rhus Lancea Slower growing. It's only humans and our overactive immune systems that take issue with it. If you come into contact with this plant, it is important to wash the area immediately with soap and water. Alba Mesquite. per stem. Gardeners should never handle the tree without gloves and keep children away from the plant. This sub is a place for questions and discussions of botany at any level. The African sumac, for instance, usually is a tall tree that can grow to as high as 25 feet, usually living 50 to 100 years. Am I gonna give my porcupine a weird rash? You are here: Home. The African sumac is a poor choice for planting next to a sidewalk or driveway, if you plant a female tree. Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) Also called shumac, stinking sumac, Chinese sumac, and ailanthus, it was introduced by a Pennsylvania gardener in 1748 and was made available commercially by 1840. Gardeners should never handle the tree without gloves and keep children away from the plant. Ten of the most common sumac species across the United States include: Invasive sumac causes damage to the surrounding environment by growing quickly and aggressively, threatening local ecosystems and putting a strain on native plants and animals. Poison sumac is found in wet and swampy areas in the United States. People have had to be hospitalized after making the mistake of burning foliage or wood. This species generally occurs as a weed in wildland areas of the Southwestern Region rather than as an invasive plant. How do I know if my dog has ingested african sumac? } Take lukewarm baths or cool showers to ease itching. Poison sumac (Toxicodendron vernix) inhabits swamps and other wet areas as well as pinewoods and hardwood forests. Poison ivy's oil is a water retention mechanism, not a defense mechanism. Every part of the tree contains urushiol oil, which causes an allergic reaction to skin. The dried fruits are used in spices, the leaves and bark have been used in the leather tanning process, and various dyes can be made from different parts of the plant. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Poison sumac has clusters of white or light-green berries that sag downward on its branches, while the red berries of harmless sumac sit upright. The person cleaning the animal should wear gloves and protective sleeves. Poison ivy and poison sumac are like the bad guy in the movie at his murderous worst. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. If you think a rash is bed, it is nothing compared to the harmful effects this tree can cause in the lungs. How can you tell if a sumac tree is poisonous? African sumacs are poisonous to humans. The red fruits are a distinctive characteristic of Rhus plants such as staghorn sumac. The poison sumac is highly toxic and can even be fatal if smoke from a burning plant is inhaled. But it's a close relative of poison ivy [Toxicodendron radicans]. Sumac can also replace an animal's natural habitat, forcing them to find other areas to live. are african sumac trees poisonous to animals. Large flower clusters in spring are followed by brilliantly colored fall foliage in orange, flame red, and burgundy. Answer: Yes the tree is poisonous to dogs. Since it spreads both by seed and new shoots, sumac can easily spread and often grow quickly. } The fungus, Verticillium dahliae, remains in the soil for years until a plant that is susceptible to it is planted. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". Poison sumac also goes by the name thunderwood in the southeastern US.. @media screen and (max-width: 767px) { These berries are yellow-green to green (or even slightly gray) during the summer and mature into cream-colored berries in the fall. Birds and small animals are often attracted to the fruit or drupes produced by sumac trees. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. 1. How to Combine Delta-8 THC With Home-Prepared Food. Indeed, the plants are somewhat closely related, both being in the same family. Not everyone would consider the lack of eye-catching blooms to be a disadvantage, but if you would like a tree that sports colorful flowers each year, the African sumac is not for you. Sumac aggressively reproduces through seeds and grows in dense thickets, cutting off other plants' access to vital nutrients. The dendritic cells move via the lymph system to the lymph nodes, where they influence the T-lymphocytes. Althea. Both plants can be responsible for a nasty rash that you wouldnt wish upon anyone.