Authors: Colton Blankenship, Ashley Hickman

Eastern poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) is a woody perennial vine commonly found in landscapes, roadsides, and forested areas across eastern North America (Image 1). Eastern poison ivy is known for causing contact dermatitis in humans.

Identification

Eastern poison ivy is a member of the cashew family (Anacardiaceae). Poison ivy commonly grows as a shrub or a climbing vine. One of the most reliable identifying characteristics of poison ivy is its compound leaves with three leaflets (Image 2). Remember the adage “leaves of three, let it be.” Leaflets of poison ivy range from having smooth margins to irregularly toothed margins, which can make identification more challenging. Leaflets of poison ivy have petioles (stalks). The central leaflet is often on a longer petiole than the adjacent leaflets (Image 3). Leaflets of poison ivy are hairless and often appear waxy or shiny. Stems of poison ivy are woody and produce aerial roots which attach to other plants and structures (Image 4). All parts of poison ivy contain urushiol oil, which is responsible for causing contact dermatitis when contacting humans and some other mammals. Some people are more sensitive to poison ivy than others. Note that exposure to smoke from burning poison ivy plant parts can cause irritation as well. Poison ivy is commonly confused with Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia); however, Virginia creeper has leaflets that occur in groups of five instead of the three of poison ivy (Image 5).

Management

Like other woody vines, poison ivy can be difficult to manage in landscape settings when it grows near desirable plants. It is critical to wear gloves and long clothing that covers skin when working with and near poison ivy to prevent contact dermatitis. In landscape settings, available preemergence herbicides are limited. Furthermore, preemergence herbicides are not typically effective on existing poison ivy plants. Poison ivy can be removed by hand. Take care to wear gloves and carefully separate poison ivy from desirable plants and structures to avoid causing damage. When hand removing vines, ensure that as much of the root system is removed as possible.

Chemical management should use systemic herbicides that can translocate within the plant. Herbicides that are effective on poison ivy will typically also damage or kill desirable plants. Take care to avoid exposing desirable plants to herbicides used for management of poison ivy. Because poison ivy is often growing in and around shrubs and trees, selectively applying herbicides to poison ivy without also contacting desirable plants is challenging. When vines cannot be selectively sprayed, consider the cut-and-paint approach: cut vines near the soil surface and carefully pull the upper portion of the plant out and away from desirable plants and discard. Then, apply the herbicide to the remaining cut portion of the stem to kill the roots. Take care to use proper personal protective equipment and follow all product label instructions when using herbicides.

Herbicides for directed postemergence control of poison ivy in landscapes.

It is the applicator’s responsibility to follow all labeled instructions and restrictions when using a herbicide product. Ensure that selected products are both 1) registered for use in ornamental landscape plantings and 2) that the ornamental species present are listed on the label as safe for use around. This does not represent an exhaustive list of all available herbicide products.

For more information on poison ivy and herbicides, contact your local parish LSU AgCenter Extension office.

P4031-D
5/20/26
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