This groundcover is completely impervious to insects. There is not one known pest. Gophers, snails and deer all leave this plant absolutely alone. While this groundcover does go somewhat dormant in winter, it turns into a multitude of fall colors before it goes to sleep for the winter.
Have any idea what this nonpareil groundcover is? It's called Rhus diversiloba. Common Name: poison oak.
Yes, El Nino obviously had no affect on good 'ol poison oak. We are having a major outbreak, of which I can personally attest. This early in the season and I've already had three boughts with the stuff! Speaking from one who has had some Oscar-winning cases in the past, you do not want to get a rash from poison oak. You'll be eating antihistamines like candy and you'll look like the Pink Panther from all the calamine lotion you swab on to help with the itching.
By far, the best deterrent of poison oak is to avoid the stuff. Of course, in order to avoid it, you need to recognize it. The old adage, "Leaves of three, leave it be," is somewhat true -- except when they have five or seven leaves to a cluster. This time of year, the shiny red leaves are almost enticing to touch. And we all know poison oak is always vine-like (except for the shrub ones). And what do you do when poison oak is bare of leaves and there's only an outward-reaching branch just waiting for you to walk by? Suffice it to say that poison oak is not always the easiest plant to recognize.
If you do come in contact with the stuff, immediately take a cold shower. Never, repeat never ever take a bath or else all you're doing is soaking in a poison oak soup, which spreads it everywhere. If you can't get to a shower quickly, scrub down with baking soda and just a little water. Be careful not to scrub in places you know have not been exposed to the plant.
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