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Leaves of Three, Let it Be
Leaves of Three, Let it Be
What Does Poison Oak Look Like? Where Does Poison Ivy Grow?
I’m doubtful that I’ve ever actually seen Poison Ivy or Poison Oak in person before, but I’m rather confident that it has seen me. I certainly succumbed to its wrath years ago when I was clearing out some overgrown weeds back when I worked for a landscaper. Not too long after the job was done, I developed a red, itchy rash that typically follows exposure. It was an unfortunate experience that I wouldn’t wish to have again anytime soon. The substance that causes the rash is called urushiol, and can be found in both Poison Oak and Poison Ivy.
How and Where Do They Grow?
Where and what conditions are best for either Poison Ivy or Poison Oak are the first differences between the two plants. Poison Oak has two basic types—one that can be found in the Eastern US and one that can be found in the Western US. Typically it grows best in semi-shaded wooded areas, although it can grow in direct sunlight. Poison Ivy, on the other hand, can be found throughout much of North America and even into the mountainous areas of Mexico. So where does Poison Ivy grow? Well, it can grow just about anywhere.
What Does Poison Oak Look Like?
Poison Oak can grow as a vine or as a small shrub. It has three glossy leaves and each leaf is between 1.5 to 4 inches long. The edges of the leaf can be toothed or lobed and roughly resemble the leaves of an oak tree. When first opening in spring, the leaves have a bronze color that turns green or greenish-red in summer. Their fall color is usually red or pink. Poison Oak has white flowers in the spring that develop into berries that are usually tan in color. An interesting fact about Poison Oak is that it can take on the appearance of the plants that grows next to it. Certainly a sneaky plant!
What Does Poison Ivy Look Like?
Poison Ivy also has three leaves as well which are green when they first open. It generally grows as a vine across shrubs and up trees. The leaves can be as small as your thumb or as large as your hand, and are usually wide at the base. Leaves can vary from matte to glossy on the same plant and are typically notched. One characteristic that is streamlined through all Poison Ivy plants is that the middle leaf in each grouping has a longer stem or petiole than the other two. They also produce berries that are green in color.
Leaves of Three, Leave It Be
As you can see, identifying these two plants can be a challenge. Since they can grow in a variety of places, I guess the old adage of “leaves of three, leave it be” is the best way to avoid this plant. There are many websites that are devoted to dealing with the rashes and allergic reactions that many people seem to have from these dastardly plants. Some people seem to be immune to the effects of either Poison Oak or Poison Ivy, but that immunity can change.
The best advice is to steer clear of these plants. If you think you have Poison Oak or Poison Ivy growing in your landscape or up your trees, contact a professional company that is trained to deal with these plants.
Want to read other useful tips on keeping your yard safe and healthy? Check out our resources on lawn disease solutions, tree and shrub care, and more.