Western poison ivy (Toxicodendron rydbergii)

Western poison ivy

Also known as: Northern poison ivy

Western poison ivy (Toxicodendron rydbergii) is a perennial shrub that grows similar to a vine. It produces very small, cup-like white flowers in summer, followed by white fruit that ripens in fall. Fruit can remain on the stems all winter. The oils of the plant are highly toxic and even the slightest brush against this shrub can cause dermatitis outbreaks with a rash of itchy blisters. Grows in sun or partial shade.

Scientific classification

Species

Western poison ivy (Toxicodendron rydbergii)

Maples, mangos, mahogany, citrus, and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Weeds

Weed or not

Late summer, Fall

Harvest Time

1 m to 3 m

Plant Height

Green, Yellow, Red, Bronze

Leaf Color

6 mm

Flower Size

Green, Yellow, White

Fruit Color

Yellow, White, Green

Flower Color

Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Western poison ivy

Distribution of Western poison ivy

Distribution Map

Western poison ivy is endemic to North America, where it is primarily found within the temperate regions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forests, other wooded areas, streamside, riversides

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Because of the toxic and highly potent urushiol oil that remains active for a long time, even on clothes and objects, western poison ivy should be removed from gardens immediately after being spotted. Although this plant has valuable ecological roles, leaving it on properties is too risky as contact leads to blistering and severe allergic reactions.

Symbolism

Fidelity, Wedded Love, Affection

Name Story

Western poison ivy: This plant is a species of Toxicodendron in the cashew family. To distinguish itself from eastern poison ivy which often appears as a trailing or climbing vine, it is called western poison ivy.

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Toxicity

Western poison ivy is highly toxic and causes severe skin irritation. The plant's urushiol oil persists and spreads across surfaces. It’s harmful to cats and dogs if ingested, with symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and more. Protective measures and immediate veterinary care are essential if pets are exposed to western poison ivy. Avoid direct contact and burnt plant parts.

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Weed Control

Western poison ivy is native to North America but can also be found in Europe. The weed roots in moist to dry soils in open woods or roadsides. It is a specially regulated noxious weed in the U.S. state of Minnesota, and the urushiol present within its oily sap can cause extreme contact dermatitis, toxicity, and allergic reactions. If necessary, western poison ivy can be regulated via mechanical control such as grazing, cutting, or mowing. Chemical control via herbicides is also viable, but this weed should not be burned due to the risk of ingesting urushiol via smoke inhalation.

How to Control It

The best season to remove western poison ivy is late spring or early summer. Western poison ivy should ideally be removed before it reaches the fruiting stage. Here are a few methods for dealing with this plant:

Manual Removal: This involves using your hands or tools to pull out western poison ivy from its roots. Remember to wear protective gear to avoid skin irritation from the plant's oil called urushiol.
Cultivation: Regularly dig up the soil where western poison ivy is growing. This will disrupt its growth and eventually kill the plant.
Smothering: Lay a thick sheet of cardboard or a tarp over the area where western poison ivy is growing. This will block sunlight and suffocate the plant.
Use of Organic Herbicides: Products such as vinegar or citrus oil can be sprayed on western poison ivy to kill it. Make sure to soak the entire plant and repeat for several days for best results.
Grazing: Certain types of animals, like goats, aren't affected by western poison ivy and can eat it safely. If you have the resources, this could be a sustainable way to control the weed.

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Care Guide for Western poison ivy

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Western poison ivy flourishes in regions with moderate water availability, needing weekly watering. As a deciduous plant, it sheds leaves during dry seasons to minimize water loss, aiding survival in its native habitat with consistent rainfall.

Propagation: The ideal propagation season for western poison ivy is Spring via sowing, with moderate difficulty. Look for new growth or sprouts as signs of success. Handle western poison ivy carefully to prevent skin contact, as it may cause allergic reactions.

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Images of Western poison ivy

Distribution of Western poison ivy

Culture

Toxicity

Weed Control

Care Guide for Western poison ivy

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