Toxicodendron radicans
Botanical Name
Taxicodendron radicans
Hardiness
Perennial
Height
Creeping or climbing vine, shrub
Flowers
May to July: greenish, hidden by leaves
Fruit
White berries
Fall Color
Yellow, orange, bright red
Light
Sun to shade
Soil
Adaptable
Management
Pull young plants in the garden while wearing gloves, pants and long sleeves. Do not burn pulled plants; this can cause an internal allergic reaction. Spot treat older plants with a total vegetation killer. Dead plants can also cause allergic reactions.
In the lawn, healthy turf and mowing keep this weed under control. If problems occur in remote areas or turf edges, use a chemical labeled for controlling poison ivy that will not harm the grass. Follow precautions described below.
Did you know?
Never destroy poison ivy by fire. Urushiol (the toxin in poison ivy) remains in the smoke and can lead to serious reactions in the eyes, lungs, or skin.