ID this Tree/Shrub- poisonous or just allergen?

Discussion in 'Plants: Identification' started by becbrat, Mar 31, 2008.

  1. becbrat

    becbrat Member

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    Everytime I come in contact with this one, I break into a rash. This tree/shrub is in Northern, VA. Keeps it's leaves all year. Photos are taken out of a 2nd story window.

    Any ideas on what it is?
     

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  2. Robert Flogaus-Faust

    Robert Flogaus-Faust Active Member 10 Years

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  3. becbrat

    becbrat Member

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    That's got to be it! I thought it might be some type of Viburnum, but I hadn't found one with the flowers at the ends of the branches like that. I read a little and it also says that it can easily cause skin irritation/allergic reaction.

    Thanks for the ID!
     
  4. Michael F

    Michael F Paragon of Plants Forums Moderator 10 Years

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    Agree it is Viburnum rhytidophyllum, though I've not come across it causing allergies before, you must be unlucky there. If it is bad for you, get someone in to remove it for you.
     
  5. Ron B

    Ron B Paragon of Plants 10 Years

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    The hairs are murder if you actually get in among the shrub, but otherwise perhaps not bothersome.
     
  6. becbrat

    becbrat Member

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    Unfortunately it's my neighbor's tree. I cut off a few branches that were scraping against our window (it has grown over his fence), and that's how I discovered the allergy. Raised itchy red dots everywhere that the plant touched. I brushed up against some fallen branches again the other day and the same result. So I just don't go near it.

    The birds love it though, and they perch on the branches right on the other side of the window. So we definitely get some enjoyment out of it.

    Thanks for all your help guys!
     
  7. Ron B

    Ron B Paragon of Plants 10 Years

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    Probably more like contact dermatitis than allergy.
     
  8. Weekend Gardener

    Weekend Gardener Active Member 10 Years

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    The sap of [IViburnum rhytidophyllum.[/I] has been reported to cause a contact hypersensitivity reaction - i.e. a contact allergy.
     
  9. jimmyq

    jimmyq Well-Known Member 10 Years

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    leatherleaf viburnum? yuck, makes me itchy and sneezy just thinking about it!
     

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