Southeastern Poison Oak (Toxicodendron pubescens) vs. Eastern Poison Ivy (Toxicodendron radicans)
Updated June 2nd, 2026These species are visually similar and both have highly variable leaf shapes. The range of T. radicans contains nearly the entire range of T. pubescens. They can usually be easily distinguished by differences in growth habit and leaf shape. T. radicans ranges farther north and west, tolerates greater shade, and ranges into moister habitats with richer soil, and is common and abundant in much of its range. T. pubescens is more tolerant of dry, rocky or sandy soils and is more restricted these habitats, and is less abundant in much of its range.
