What Does Poison Ivy Look Like? How to Identify This Plant

Knowing what poison ivy looks like can help you avoid a painful, itchy rash. This plant grows throughout most of the United States and contains an oil called urushiol that causes an allergic reaction in most people who touch it.

The "Leaves of Three" Rule

The most important way to identify poison ivy is by its leaves. Poison ivy always has three leaflets growing from a single stem. The middle leaflet is slightly larger and has a longer stalk than the two side leaflets. Remember the saying: "Leaves of three, let it be."

The leaf edges can be smooth, wavy, or have small teeth. The leaves have a slightly waxy look on top and are never fuzzy. They are typically shaped like teardrops or almonds.

How Poison Ivy Changes by Season

In spring, new poison ivy leaves are reddish or have red edges. During summer, the leaves turn dark green. In fall, they change to bright red, orange, or yellow. Even in winter when leaves fall off, the bare vines with hairy-looking roots can still cause a rash.

Where Poison Ivy Grows

Poison ivy is found everywhere in the United States except Alaska and Hawaii. It can grow as a low shrub, a ground cover that spreads through grass, or a climbing vine. Climbing vines can reach 75 feet or more and have fuzzy, reddish-brown roots that cling to trees and fences.

What Does a Poison Ivy Rash Look Like?

A poison ivy rash appears as red, itchy bumps and blisters. The rash often shows up in lines or streaks where the plant touched your skin. Symptoms usually start 12 to 48 hours after contact. The blisters may ooze fluid, but this fluid does not spread the rash.

How Long Does Poison Ivy Last?

For most people, the rash lasts one to three weeks. Mild cases may clear up in about a week. If this is your first time getting poison ivy, the rash could last three weeks or longer. See a doctor if the rash spreads to your face, lasts more than three weeks, or shows signs of infection.

Is Poison Ivy Contagious?

No, poison ivy is not contagious. You cannot catch it from touching someone else's rash or from the fluid in blisters. The only way to get a rash is by touching the urushiol oil from the plant. However, this oil can stick to clothing, tools, and pet fur for months, so you can get a rash from touching contaminated items.