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Rydberg's Poison-ivy

Toxicodendron rydbergii

Last reviewed: June 2026

Rydberg's Poison-ivy (Toxicodendron rydbergii)
Photo: Dave Powell, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org (cropped by the uploader) / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

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

Light

full sun

Water

medium

Size

12"–60" H × 24"–120" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

OH

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Rydberg's poison-ivy is a native climbing vine that produces clusters of small greenish flowers in late spring and early summer. This deciduous vine spreads extensively and causes severe skin reactions in most people who come into contact with it.

In an HOA neighborhood

Rydberg's 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.

  • Highly toxic to humans causing severe allergic reactions
  • Aggressive spreading habit difficult to control
  • Liability concerns for neighbors and visitors

Wildlife value

The flowers attract bees and beetles, and the berries provide food for birds. Despite its toxicity to humans, it serves as an important native plant for wildlife habitat.

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.

Does Rydberg's Poison-ivy fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.