Western Poison Ivy
Toxicodendron rydbergii
(Rhus radicans)
Poison Ivy gains a foothold in the Sonoran Desert only in
riparian habitat where there is plenty of water and shade. Come autumn the
changing leaves add a splash of color. This patch was found growing with
columbine at Mesquite Wash, Maricopa Co., Arizona, Oct. 27, 2002.
RANGE:Upland Sonoran Desert in well watered riparian habitats.
VINE: Rambling and often vine like. Occasionally short stems may be partially ascending without supporting surfaces.
LEAVES: Shiny, compound leaves are three parted. Change to characteristic sumac red in autumn.
FRUIT: White berries.
FLOWERS: Inconspicuous whitish-yellow flowers.
UNARMED. Leaves and stems produce resin that causes dermatitis in susceptible persons.