Western Poison Ivy
Toxicodendron rydbergii
Also listed as Rhus rydbergii, Toxicodendron desertorum
Also known as Rydberg's Poison-ivy, Northern Poison Ivy, Poison Ivy
Climate Match for your location
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Western poison ivy is a deciduous shrub native to western North America with three-leaflet compound leaves that turn vibrant red or orange in fall. All parts of the plant contain urushiol oil and cause severe skin reactions upon contact.
Why grow it
Western poison ivy serves specialized ecological roles in native plant restoration and wildlife habitat creation across western rangelands and woodlands. Compared to ornamental shrubs of similar stature, it establishes quickly in poor soils with minimal water inputs once established, making it valuable for erosion control and land rehabilitation in its native range. Its fall color and berry production support native wildlife, particularly birds that consume the drupes without ill effect.
Watch out for
This species spreads vegetatively through rhizomes and can expand beyond intended planting areas if not contained or monitored. The plant's deciduous habit means winter dormancy may obscure its presence, creating a hazard during site work or land clearing. Succession management may be necessary if dense stands develop, as they can shade out other native understory species in some contexts.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Anacardiaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Western North America
Native to: Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, West Virginia, Wyoming
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Western poison ivy is a deciduous shrub native to western North America with three-leaflet compound leaves that turn vibrant red or orange in fall. All parts of the plant contain urushiol oil and cause severe skin reactions upon contact.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Western Poison Ivy grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Western poison ivy serves specialized ecological roles in native plant restoration and wildlife habitat creation across western rangelands and woodlands. Compared to ornamental shrubs of similar stature, it establishes quickly in poor soils with minimal water inputs once established, making it valuable for erosion control and land rehabilitation in its native range. Its fall color and berry production support native wildlife, particularly birds that consume the drupes without ill effect.
Watch out for
This species spreads vegetatively through rhizomes and can expand beyond intended planting areas if not contained or monitored. The plant's deciduous habit means winter dormancy may obscure its presence, creating a hazard during site work or land clearing. Succession management may be necessary if dense stands develop, as they can shade out other native understory species in some contexts.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Anacardiaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Western North America
Native to: Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, West Virginia, Wyoming
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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