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Poison Ivy

Toxicodendron radicans

Poison Ivy foliage during autumn leaf coloration in Ewing, New Jersey

Eastern Poison Ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) range map based on the USDA map located at http://plants.usda.gov/core/profi

Toxicodendron radicans, commonly known as eastern poison ivy or poison ivy, is a species of allergenic flowering plant. It has numerous subtaxons and forms both vines and shrubs. Despite its common name, it is not a true ivy, but rather a member of the cashew and sumac family, Anacardiaceae.

Quick Facts

Scientific name Toxicodendron radicans
Family Anacardiaceae
Height Groundcover or vine
Bloom time May-Jun
Sun Full sun to shade
Moisture Dry to wet
Soil Any
Wildlife value Native; berries are important winter bird food. Urushiol causes severe rash - leaves of three

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Image Credits

  • Famartin (CC BY-SA 4.0)
  • Coinmanj (CC BY-SA 4.0)

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