POISON-SUMAC (Leaf, one-half natural size; [fruit] often larger)
The [compound], [alternate] LEAVES are quite different from those of other sumacs, shaped more like those of ash, for which reason it is often called “poison ash.” The leaf-stems are always reddish, and usually quite conspicuous. The leaves are 7 to 14 inches long, with 7 to 13 ovate-oblong [leaflets], 3 to 4 inches long. The leaflets are bright green above, paler beneath, usually with a red [midrib].
The small FLOWERS are borne in [panicles] much less compact than those of other sumacs. The [FRUIT] is a lustrous white [drupe], born in slender, drooping panicles. The fruit matures in September and is eaten by birds and rabbits. The sap can be used to make a black, durable varnish.
AMERICAN HOLLY
Ilex opaca Ait.
American holly is found on rich, moist soils of bottomlands in East Texas and westward to Wilson County. A tree often 50 feet high, frequently attains heights of 80 to 100 feet and diameters up to 4 feet. A large specimen may be seen at the Texas Forest Service’s Indian Mound Nursery near Alto.
AMERICAN HOLLY (Leaf and [fruit], two-thirds natural size)
The [BARK] is light gray and roughened by wart-like growths. The numerous, short, slender branches form a dense [pyramidal] head of striking dark green color which is more pronounced when the conspicuous red [drupes] are present.
The LEAVES are [simple], [alternate], rather [oval], thick and leathery, 2 to 4 inches long and usually armed with spiny teeth. They remain on the branches three years, dropping off in the spring.