Toxicodendron radicans (Poison Ivy)


Botanical Information

FamilyAnacardiaceae
GenusToxicodendron
Speciesradicans
CategoryWoody
TypeShrub (deciduous), Vine
OriginNorth America.
Ethnobotanical Uses
Disclaimer
May cause severe spreading dermatitis with direct or indirect contact due to presence of 3-n pentadecycatechnol.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone5
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone4 - 6a
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH7
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-29 - (-23)
Temperature (°F)-20 - (-10)
Height2 m
GrowthFast
Flowering PeriodMay, June, July

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionWell known for causing an unpleasant itching and on occasion, painful rash in most who touch the plant. Easily recognized with its shiny and irregulartoothed leaves in groups of 3 and greyish-white berries.
ID CharacteristicShiny and irregularly-toothed leaves in groups of 3 and greyish-white berries.
ShapeMat-forming.
LandscapeNot recommended.
CultivationHandle only with gloves and avoid in garden situations unless labelled and out of reach.
PestsNone known.
Notable SpecimensJoany's Woods, West Williams, Middlesex County, Ontario, Canada.
HabitatForest floors and forest edges.
Leaf DescriptionTrifoliate with three almond-shaped leaflets, ranging from light to dark green.
Flower DescriptionYellowish or greenish-white flowers are inconspicuous and are located in clusters up to 8 cm above the leaves.
Fruit DescriptionBerry-like fruit mature from August to November that are greyish-white colour.

Photographs