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How can I identify Poison Ivy plants?

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Since the chemical that causes Poison Ivy, urushiol, is found in all parts of the plant, the only way to prevent a potential rash is to avoid the plant all together. This could prove difficult, however, because Poison Ivy grows almost everywhere in the U.S.

You may have heard the rule “leaflets three, let it be,” which tells you to avoid any plant with three leaves. This is normally true-three leaves with the middle leaf being the longest- however this is not always the case. Poison Ivy can contain up to nine leaves.

Another way that you can identify a Poison Ivy plant is that they generally grow in a cluster of low, weed-like plants or a woody vine that can climb trees or fences. They are most often found in moist areas such as riverbanks or in the woods. The edges of the leaves are generally smooth or have tiny teeth like cuts around the edges.

Their leaf color also changes depending on the season. In the spring, they take on a reddish tint. In the summer, the leaves turn yellow and they take on an orange or red tint in the fall. Also, if there are berries they are typically white.

When looking out for Poison Ivy, don’t forget about its cousins poison oak and poison sumac. They have their own unique appearance. For example, poison oak grows as a shrub and is typically found in dry areas. The leaves of poison oak are usually found in groups of three and tend to be thick and green.

Poison sumac usually grows in moist, swampy areas and is a woody shrub made of stems with rows of seven to thirteen smooth-edged leaflets.

Next Page: What does Poison Ivy do to my Immune System?

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