Rhus radicans Poison ivy (Anacardiaceae) Deciduous climber

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Rhus radicans
Poison ivy
Deciduous climber
(1 Page of 5)

The Rhus radicans plant species is found in Eastern N. America - Quebec to Florida, west to Texas.. It is a member of the Anacardiaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Poison ivy. Some home gardeners know the variety as R. toxicodendron. non L. Toxicodendron radicans. (L.)Kuntze. T. vulgare.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Rhus radicans
Common Name:  Poison ivy
Family:  Anacardiaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  This plant contains toxic substances and skin contact with it can cause severe irritation to some people[11]. The sap is extremely poisonous[11]. The sap contains 3-N pentadecycatechnol. Many people are exceedingly sensitive to this, it causes a severe spreading dermatitis. The toxins only reach the skin if the plant tissues have been damaged, but even indirect contact can cause severe problems[200].

Mature Height:  2.5   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Woods, on rocky slopes and in wooded swamps[43].

Medicinal Information: Poison ivy has occasionally been used medicinally, though it is an extremely poisonous plant and great caution should be exercised. Any herbal use should only be undertaken under the supervision of a qualified practitioner. See also the notes above on toxicity. This plant has been used in the past by physicians in the treatment of paralysis and liver disorders[222]. A decoction of the leaves has been used as a tonic and rejuvenator[257]. The whole or the broken leaves have been rubbed over the skin to treat boils and skin eruptions[257]. The leaves have been rubbed on skin that has been affected by a poison ivy reaction[257].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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