Poisonwood (Metopium Toxiferum) is a perennial tree in the Anacardiaceae family with moderate care difficulty. It requires moderate watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Metopium toxiferum is a species of flowering tree in the cashew or sumac family, Anacardiaceae, known for its toxic sap and broad, rounded crown.

Poisonwood

Poisonwood

Metopium Toxiferum

Metopium toxiferum is a species of flowering tree in the cashew or sumac family, Anacardiaceae, known for its toxic sap and broad, rounded crown.

Quick Facts

Type
tree
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Water Needs
Moderate
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
9-11

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:sandy, loamy
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:specimen, screen

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Poisonwood

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Poisonwood
Poisonwood detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Anacardiaceae
Genus:Metopium