Poison Ivy

(Toxicodendron radicans)

Other Names:
Eastern poison ivy, poison ivy

Range:


Family:
Anacardiaceae - Sumac Family

Growth Type:
Perennial woody.

Height:
Can grow to 100 ft or more in height. Can also be a short recumbent plant, or shrub.

Leaves:
Trifoliate compound leaves arranged alternately along the stem. The leaf at the terminal end of the petiole is symmetrical, but the two alternate leaves are atypical; meaning that when folded along the midrib, the two leaf halves are not the same. The smaller of the two leaf halves typically points toward the symmetrical center leaf. The petiole of the terminal leaflet is much longer than those of the opposite, atypical, leaflets.

Stem/Trunk:
The tall, woody, vines growing on trees attach themselves by means of numerous roots which grab hold, and are very difficult to dislodge.

Root:
Tough spreading root mass

Flower Season:
May-July

Flower Appearance:
Small yellowish or greenish-white flowers are typically inconspicuous and are located in clusters up to 3 in above the leaves.

Seed/Fruit:
The berry-like fruit, or drupes, mature from late summer into late autumn. They are grayish-white in color, and are toxic to humans, although some species of bird to eat them.

Miscellaneous characteristics:
This plant can present in many growth patterns. It is the great imitator. It can be a small recumbent plant. Or it can be a large dense bush. It can also be a vine which grows to the top of trees, or other support structures. All contain the toxic urushiol oil.

Habitat:
It is found widely distributed throughout its range. It will grow in rocky soils, moist rich woods. Disturbed soils. It is widely distributed in urban and suburban areas as well.

No part of this plant should be picked for any reason. All parts are toxic. Ingesting any part of this plant will result in searious harm up to and includinng death.