A Poison Ivy Plant. Toxicodendron radicans, commonly known as eastern poison ivy or poison ivy, is an allergenic Asian and Eastern North American flowering plant in the genus Toxicodendron. Dogs and cats can carry its potency on their fur.
Most Americans will have an allergic reaction to poison ivy, oak, and sumac. Poison ivy, (Toxicodendron radicans), also called eastern poison ivy, poisonous vine or shrub of the cashew family (Anacardiaceae), native to eastern North America. Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac are a hazard year-round.
Poison ivy often grows low to the ground, resembling a weed or shrub.
Poison ivy plant leaves always occurs in sets of three.
WebMD explains the cause, how to treat a reaction, how to recognize the plant, and how to prevent exposure. That includes poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, and other undesirable plants. It also can grow taller as a vine, along plants, trees, or poles.