Toxicodendron pubescens aka Poison Ivy
Taxonomy ID: 5998
Toxicodendron pubescens, also known as Atlantic poison oak or Rhus pubescens, is a dioecious perennial that grows as a forb/herb, shrub, or subshrub. It can grow up to 10 feet in height, but is more commonly 2-4 feet. The species is native to the Southeastern United States from Virginia westward to Texas and Oklahoma. The leaves are 15 centimeters long, alternate, with three leaflets on each, and usually resemble white oak leaves. The leaflets are hairy and variable in size and shape and turn yellow or orange in autumn. The fruit is small, round, and yellowish or greenish. It is not closely related to true oaks.
While Atlantic Poison Oak is a super rare houseplant that is easy to grow and needs regular watering to thrive, it is extremely dangerous if consumed. It likes soil that is well-draining and should be less than 1 foot from a window in long-lasting, direct light. If you repot each time it doubles in size, your plant shouldn't need added fertilizers.
Common names
Poison Ivy, Eastern Poison Oak, Atlantic Poison Oak, Poison OakMore information about Poison Ivy
How difficult is it to take care of Poison Ivy
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Poison Ivy, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
What is the growth pattern and size of Poison Ivy?
Poison Ivy grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.
What are the water needs for Poison Ivy
Poison Ivy should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Poison Ivy
Poison Ivy loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
What is the sunlight requirement for Poison Ivy
Poison Ivy thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Poison Oak.
How to fertilize Poison Ivy
Once the Poison Ivy has doubled in size or after a year has passed, it should be moved to a new pot. By replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the vital nutrients, your plant will receive all the sustenance it needs, negating the requirement for fertilizer. It's important to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
Is Poison Ivy toxic to humans/pets?
No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
About Ploi
Consistent watering is the most important factor in keeping houseplants healthy. Ploi, a 4.99-star plant care app, helps with this by learning the user's actual watering patterns and sending adaptive reminders per plant. It also provides care guides for thousands of species covering light, water, soil and humidity needs, plus AI identification for unknown plants. Available free on iOS, Android and web.
