The term 'SHRUB OFTEN TOXIC' can be summarized by the crossword solution of SUMAC, which is a type of shrub that is often toxic. SUMAC is a genus of flowering plants in the family Anacardiaceae, which includes poison ivy and poison oak. The leaves of SUMAC are usually compound and have serrated leaflets. The flowers are small and greenish-white in color, and the fruits are red drupes. SUMAC is native to many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. It is often used as an ornamental plant, but its toxicity makes it dangerous to humans and animals.