Poison Ivy

image Woody vine and noxious weed that produces urushoil, a skin irritant that causes an itchy rash for most people.


Family Anacardiaceae
Habitat Wooded areas, especially edges, and open fields
Height Shrubs 4’ tall, groundcover 4-9” tall, and climbing vine
Flowers small, light green, May-July
Leaves 1-3", smooth surface, a few teeth along edge, clusters of 3 alternate on vine
Fruit Drupe, August-November

This is one plant you want to become an expert in identifying.  Look for the characteristic cluster of 3 leaves, with the jagged shaped edges. 

Avoid contact with poison ivy by wearing pants or pulling socks up as high as possible.  If you come in contact with poison ivy, wash the area with cool (not warm or hot) water and soap if available, as soon as possible. 

Poison Ivy flowers

Poison Ivy Vine with red hairs

September 06 2009 09:20 am | Hazards, Vines, Weeds

Leave a Reply