WESTERN POISON IVY
Toxicodendron rydbergii
Plant Characteristics
Height:
6" - 48"
Stem:
Vine or shrubby
Leaves:
Three leaflets
Flower:
Five petals, greenish
Bloom Time:
June to JulyWestern poison ivy is a native plant but it is on the noxious weed list for Minnesota due to its toxic, rash-like properties. It also has the ability to form large colonies with the ability to grow in sun or shade. Animals often use it for food or shelter (for smaller organisms) which can be a benefit of keeping the plant if you do not have to walk through or touch the area often.
Spot Spray
Spot spray for at least two years.
Mow
Mow continuously.
Cultural Plant Alternatives:
Wild Ginger
Wild ginger is a common ground laying herb that forms attractive patches of heart shaped leaves. Root, fresh or dried, can be a ginger substitute. A delicious syrup can be made by boiling the roots in sugar water to be used on ice cream, desserts and soda water.
Blue Phlox
This low lying plant is common in forests and moist soils. It does best in places with a lot of decaying leaf matter. The entire plant can be used to make tea to treat indigestion and treat skin conditios like eczema.
