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Plants in Florida That Cause Blisters

There are several highly poisonous plants found in Florida. The main three toxic plants to avoid are poison ivy, poison sumac, and poison oak. Poison ivy is the most common of the three and is especially dangerous since it is a creeping vine, which means contact with the face or neck is possible. Poison sumac and poison oak are less common and easier to identify than poison ivy. There are also a few skin irritating ornamental flowers that grow in Florida.

  1. Poison Ivy

    • When skin comes into even light contact with poison ivy, a painful rash with blisters will develop. Poison ivy is common in Florida and can even be found in public parks and along the side of the road. To be safe, avoid any plant with leaves growing in groups of three. There are many plants with three leaf formations that are not poison ivy, but since rashes from poison ivy are extremely painful it is better to be cautious.

    Poison Sumac

    • There are two types of sumac: poison sumac and staghorn sumac. Staghorn sumac is a very common plant and is completely non-toxic. Poison sumac is much more rare than staghorn sumac and is confined to extremely wet areas. Poison sumac is found throughout Florida, usually in wetlands and swamps. Luckily, poison sumac and staghorn sumac look quite different. Poison sumac has smooth leaves, while the leaves of staghorn sumac are jagged and hairy.

    Poison Oak

    • Poison oak, like poison ivy and poison sumac, causes rashes and blisters when it comes into contact with bare skin. Luckily, poison oak is more distinctive than poison ivy and is therefore easier to identify and avoid. The leaves of poison oak also grow in threes, however, the leaves are lobed and grow upright. Poison oak does not grow as a vine like poison ivy, instead it looks like a low, leafy shrub.

    Other Rash-Causing Plants

    • Oleanders and poinsettias can also cause skin irritation in people with sensitive skin or if the plants are crushed and rubbed on the skin. Both types of flowers are common ornamentals and can be found in gardens and homes throughout Florida. If skin irritation develops after coming into contact with these plants, call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

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