How to Recognize Poison Ivy Plants

It is important to avoid being in contact with the poison ivy plants and its remains. These plants are mainly in the North America (Canada, United States and Mexico). So it is important to recognize these plants so that you will know not to touch it when you see one. Being in contact with the poison ivy plant can cause very severe itching for a long time if left untreated. This article talks about what the plant looks like.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
    
   alternate leaf pattern

   The poison ivy has alternate leaf pattern. It is important to notice this leaf pattern because it will help you know the difference between the poison ivy and some similar plants. On a stem, there is only one set of leaves at a node leaving the other side empty.

2. The poison ivy’s leaves are always in a set of three in the alternate pattern. The leaves are colored from light green (young leaves) to darker green (older leaves). The leaves are smooth and shiny in appearance resembling leaves covered by an oily film.

3. When poison ivy’s vine is growing on a tree, it tends to have the characteristic red hairs on its vine.
   The poison ivy has white grayish small flowers.

[moneymakinmama8]

on 4/11/2009 Great info about poison ivy plants, I'm allergic so I'll get use out of this! thanks

[cybilfrost]

on 4/11/2009 good information on knowing what to look for! 5*

[ljbinkop]

on 4/11/2009 Recognizing poison ivy is so important if you are outside a lot in the spring and summer. Thank you for the great article!

[georgelarson]

on 4/11/2009 Good to know for everyone going outside. Thanks.