Tree Identification: Mulberry vs. Poison Oak

A southern Ontario homeowner needed help identifying two yard trees a neighbor insisted were poison oak. Photos showed single leaves, not compound leaflets.

Key Differences

Poison oak is a woody shrub or vine with compound leaves of three (sometimes 5, 7, or 9) leaflets. The central leaflet has the longest stem. Leaves are notched or toothed, dark green above, paler below. In open areas it forms a bushy shrub up to 6 feet; in shade it becomes vine-like, climbing structures.

Mulberry has simple, single leaves—not compound. The submitted photos clearly show single leaves, confirming mulberry.

Conclusion

The trees are mulberry, not poison oak. No removal needed.