How much sun does Poison-ivy need?

Poison-ivy grows best in part sun conditions.

When does Poison-ivy bloom?

Poison-ivy blooms in May, June, and July.

Where is Poison-ivy native?

Poison-ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CT and 42 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

What butterflies or moths does Poison-ivy host?

Poison-ivy is a larval host plant for sphinx moths.

Is Poison-ivy HOA-friendly?

Poison-ivy takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Poison-ivy

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Toxicodendron radicans

Last reviewed: June 2026

Poison-ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

12"–120" H × 24"–240" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

AL, AR, AZ, CT and 42 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles, flies

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Chihuahuan Deserts Central Oklahoma/Texas Plains Edwards Plateau Southern Texas Plains Texas Blackland Prairies East Central Texas Plains Western Gulf Coastal Plain South Central Plains

Poison ivy is a native climbing or trailing vine that produces clusters of small greenish flowers followed by white berries. This highly allergenic plant causes severe skin reactions in most people and spreads aggressively through underground roots and bird-dispersed seeds.

In an HOA neighborhood

Poison-ivy takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Causes severe allergic reactions in most people
Considered a noxious weed requiring removal
Liability concern for neighborhoods

Wildlife value

Host plant for sphinx moths.

The flowers attract bees, beetles, and flies, while the berries provide food for over 60 bird species. Despite its wildlife benefits, the extreme human health risks make it unsuitable for residential landscapes.

Common questions

How much sun does Poison-ivy need?: Poison-ivy grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Poison-ivy bloom?: Poison-ivy blooms in May, June, and July.
Where is Poison-ivy native?: Poison-ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CT and 42 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Poison-ivy toxic to dogs?: Poison-ivy is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
Is Poison-ivy toxic to cats?: Poison-ivy is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
What butterflies or moths does Poison-ivy host?: Poison-ivy is a larval host plant for sphinx moths.
Is Poison-ivy HOA-friendly?: Poison-ivy takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Poison-ivy? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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