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Poison oak #867076

Asked May 05, 2024, 9:38 AM EDT

Does poison oak grow in Michigan?

Eaton County Michigan

Expert Response

Hi Lori,

My understanding is that, no, poison oak does not grow in Michigan.

A quick google shows up a few publications saying that it does. I think people are mis-identifying poison ivy as poison oak. Poison ivy leaves can be variable and it can grow as a shrub or a vine, so people might mistake it for a different species. 

We do have poison sumac. Here is a link the UM herbarium information on poison sumac

And a link to an MSU publication on poison ivy

Take care,  

Lindsey K. Kerr, MS, MHP (she, her, hers) Replied May 06, 2024, 12:13 PM EDT

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