Plant Identifier
Poison Ivy

Poison Ivy

Toxicodendron radicans

Family: Anacardiaceae (Cashew Family)Native: Eastern and Central North America, parts of Mexico, and Central America.Identified: Aug 25, 2025

Poison Ivy is a woody perennial vine or shrub. It is most recognized by its compound leaves that typically grow in clusters of three leaflets. The terminal leaflet has a longer stalk than the two lateral ones. The leaves can be glossy or dull, green in summer, turning red/orange in fall. The plant produces small, greenish-white flowers in spring and clusters of grayish-white berries.

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Care instructions

Poison Ivy is a hazardous plant due to the urushiol oil that causes an itchy rash. It is generally not cultivated intentionally. If found in a garden or yard, it should be removed with extreme caution, wearing protective clothing, gloves, and eye protection. Tools used for removal should be thoroughly cleaned. Dispose of removed plants carefully, avoiding burning as the urushiol can become airborne.