Either of two North American species of white-fruited woody vines or shrubs of the sumac , or cashew, family.
The species found in eastern North America ( Toxicodendron radicans ) is abundant; a western species, known as poison oak , is less common. Both species are sometimes classified as genus Rhus . A key identifier is leaves with three mitten-shaped leaflets. Contact with urushiol, an oil produced by the plant, can cause severe inflammation and blistering of human skin. Urushiol may be carried from the plant on clothing, shoes, tools, or soil; by animals; or by smoke from burning plants. Because urushiol is nonvolatile, a reaction may result from wearing clothing a year or more after its contact with the plant.
Poison ivy ( Toxicodendron radicans )
Walter Chandoha