Outdoor Itch Resource Center

Uh oh! A mysterious rash is developing after enjoying a day outside. After doctors' appointments, over-the-counter treatments, and the like, you know it’s the dreaded poison ivy. Whether it’s brushing up against a plant or coming into contact with clothing or pets, a poison ivy rash is a notoriously frustrating experience.

Now there is hesitation to spend time outdoors, fearful the mysterious rash may develop again. Let’s take a look at how to identify poison ivy, the culprit of these infuriating rashes, and avoid another miserable experience.

What Does Poison Ivy Look Like?

Poison ivy is a plant that’s notorious for causing skin rashes upon contact. It’s essential to recognize it to avoid any (more) harmful encounters. Here’s a breakdown of its appearance:

• Leaves: The most distinct feature of poison ivy is its leaves. They grow in clusters of three and can appear glossy or matte. The edges may be smooth or slightly jagged. A common rhyme to help remember this is, “Leaves of three, let it be.”
• Color: The leaves are typically green in the spring and summer but can turn reddish or yellow in the fall.
• Stem: Poison ivy can sometimes have a hairy or vine-like stem, especially when it grows as a shrub or vine. The stem may appear slightly brownish or woody.
• Size: The plant can range from a low-growing shrub to a high, climbing vine that can reach four feet or more in height.

Where Does Poison Ivy Grow?

Poison ivy can thrive in various environments across North America, particularly in areas with moderate to high humidity. Some common locations include:

• Wooded areas: Poison ivy often grows in forested or wooded regions, especially in areas with partial sunlight.
• Roadsides and Trails: You might come across it along hiking trails or roadsides, where it thrives in disturbed soils. Make sure to keep an eye out for its infamous features on your hiking trips–nobody wants a hiking trip gone wrong.
• Lawns and Gardens: It can appear in gardens or areas with minimal lawn maintenance, especially near wooded boundaries. If your child is playing outside in a backyard, stay vigilant for the warning signs.
• Urban Areas: Poison ivy can even grow in urban environments, such as parks or vacant lots, so it’s important to keep an eye out in various settings.

Poison Ivy Through the Seasons

Poison ivy changes its appearance as the seasons progress, which can sometimes make identification tricky. Here’s how it transforms throughout the year:

• Spring (March to May): In spring, poison ivy starts to grow with reddish or bronze leaves. The leaves will have a tender, shiny look as they emerge.
• Summer (June to August): During the warmer months, poison ivy’s leaves are fully formed, vibrant green, and can become quite dense. It is the most prevalent in this season.
• Fall (September to November): As the weather cools, poison ivy leaves turn a mix of red, yellow, and orange, making it harder to differentiate from other plants.
• Winter (December to February): While the leaves may fall off, poison ivy’s woody stems or vines can still be visible, particularly in areas where the plant climbs trees or walls.

How to Avoid Poison Ivy and Protect Yourself

If you think you've encountered poison ivy, remember: Contact with any part of the plant can cause a rash due to the oil, urushiol, it produces. Here are some tips for avoiding it: 

• Wear protective clothing: Long sleeves, pants, and gloves when hiking or working in areas where poison ivy is common.
• Wash up: If you come into contact with it, wash the area immediately with soap and water. Tecnu’s Detox Wipes are also a good option to wash the oils off on-the-go if need be. Upon returning home, Tecnu’s Original Outdoor Skin Cleanser provides the same protection if you think you were exposed. The sooner you clean off the oils, the less likely you’ll experience a rash.
• Be cautious with pets: Dogs and other pets can get poison ivy oils on their fur and transfer them to you, so be careful around them.