Poison Ivy
Rhus radicans
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Pl. 4643 — Rhus radicans
Rhus radicansRhus radicansRhus radicansRhus radicansRhus radicansRhus radicansRhus radicansRhus radicansRhus radicansRhus radicansRhus radicansRhus radicansRhus radicansRhus radicans
IOverview
Overview
Poison Ivy (Rhus radicans) is a shrub, subshrub, or vine that thrives in moist and light soils across much of the eastern United States, extending into parts of Canada and Mexico. Native to Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, and other southeastern states, it has also naturalized in several Caribbean locations such as the Bahamas and Bermuda. Known for its distinctive three-leafed clusters and its ability to grow in a variety of habitats, this plant is both ornamental and edible, though caution is advised due to its skin irritant properties. Its preference for full sun and adaptability to light, medium, and heavy soils make it a common sight in gardens and forests alike.
Quick answers
What is Poison Ivy?
Poison Ivy (Rhus radicans) is a shrub, subshrub, or vine that thrives in moist and light soils across much of the eastern United States, extending into parts of Canada and Mexico.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Poison Ivy thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It can grow as a shrub, subshrub, or vine up to 2.5 meters tall. Hardy in zones 4-8, this plant is native to temperate regions including Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, and other southeastern states. Propagate through stem cuttings or layering. Note that while it is edible, handling the plant can cause dermatitis due to urushiol oil.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Habit
Shrub, Subshrub, Vine
Mature size
2.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Poison Ivy for the first time
8steps
Poison Ivy is a challenging plant for beginners due to its invasive nature, but with care, you can manage it.
- 1
What you'll need
A shovel, gloves, and a container or garden space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining; use light, medium, or heavy soil types. For containers, choose a pot at least 10 inches wide.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from a nursery or take cuttings from an existing plant in spring.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist and avoid direct sunlight for the first few days. Monitor for signs of stress or disease.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Prune to control growth and remove any damaged vines.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and size. Remove any dead or diseased parts.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, not using gloves when handling, allowing it to spread uncontrollably, and planting near sensitive areas.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:DyeInkMordantoil
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 30 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Americas2 regions
native (2)BahamasGuatemala
Broader regions
native:Mexico Southwest, Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Bermuda, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, Mexico Southeast, Kentucky, Masachusettes, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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