Beware of Poisonwood!

The Florida Keys is home to over a hundred native plants, but the average resident could identify maybe only a few.  However, if you're going to be spending some time in this beautiful ecosystem it would be a good idea to learn which ones to steer clear of.

One, in particular, is a tree commonly known as Poisonwood, or Metopium toxiferum.  Although it looks relatively harmless, it most certainly is not!  In fact, it belongs to the same family as poison ivy, poison sumac, poison oak, and (surprisingly) mango.  Within all structures of the tree, there contains a resin called urushiol, which typically causes rashes and irritation to mucus membranes.  The resin is so toxic in this specific plant that people have reported irritation caused from just water droplets from the tree coming in contact with skin, as well as inhaling smoke from burning its wood.

So what should one look out for while exploring pineland areas of the Florida Keys?

·         Evergreen shrub or medium tree measuring 25-35 feet or taller

·         Leaves that are odd-pinnately compound, alternately arranged, 6-10 inches long, usually 3,5, or 7 leaflets

·         Leaflets that are smooth, glossy, dark green upper surface, and paler underneath

·         Fruit that is yellow-orange in color, drupe, and about a half-inch long, hanging loosely in clusters, and each drupe containing one, quarter-inch hard, brown seed

·         Bark that is reddish-brown or gray, thin, has dark, oily patches from gummy sap, and older trunks usually having scaly bark

So what if you come into contact with poisonwood?

·         Wash the affected area with soap and warm water thoroughly

·         Symptom may include red, raised, itchy and/or painful rash (similar to poison ivy rashes)

·         If symptoms worsen, call a physician immediately!

Even though coming into contact with this tree is harmful to humans, this species still provides benefits to surrounding organisms in its natural habitat.  The tree itself provides shelter for several different migratory birds.  In addition, these birds often rely on the fruit of poisonwood trees as a major food source.  An endangered species, the white-crowned pigeon, especially relies heavily on this fruit as it eats an abundant amount during nesting season.

So as you can see, poisonwood isn’t ALL bad!  It is a necessary part of Florida Keys’ ecosystem as it provides food and shelter for other organisms.  Just be careful not to touch it!

For more information about poisonwood and its relatives visit these websites:

https://floridakeystreasures.com/poisonwood-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly/

https://floridahikes.com/floridas-toxic-trees