Getting to Know 5 Common Leaf Plants
Plants with five leaflets are found all around us, though some can cause irritating rashes while others provide benefits. This article explores 5 common leaf plants with 5 leaflets, how to identify them, where they grow, and whether they are friend or foe.
Poison Ivy
Poison ivy is one of the most notorious five leaflet plants. This woody vine plant can be found creeping along the ground or climbing up trees and poles across most of North America.
- Leaves - Each leaf has 3 shiny green leaflets with smooth or toothed edges.
- Identifying traits - May have reddish stems and yellowish-white berries. Leaves turn red in fall.
- Habitat - Grows in wooded, partially shaded areas.
Poison ivy contains urushiol oil that causes an itchy, blistering rash in most people. The rash appears within 1-2 days if skin contacts the leaves, stems or vines. Wear gloves and long sleeves if removing poison ivy plants.
Virginia Creeper
Virginia creeper is often mistaken for poison ivy due to its five leaflets. But this fast-growing vine is harmless.
- Leaves - Palmate compound leaves with 5 leaflets extending from one point.
- Identifying traits - Reddish stems, bluish berries, leaves turn bright red in fall.
- Habitat - Found growing up trees, fences and walls. Thrives in wooded areas.
Virginia creeper is not toxic and can be touched safely. It was traditionally used medicinally by Native Americans. This sturdy vine provides nice fall color and shelter for birds.
Wood Nettle
The stinging wood nettle is aptly named - its leaves and stems contain stinging hairs that cause pain and irritation.
- Leaves - Rough, sandpaper-like oval leaves with serrated edges, arranged oppositely on the stem.
- Identifying traits - Covered in brittle hairs that release chemicals, causing stinging.
- Habitat - Moist, partially shaded woodlands, fields and thickets.
Wood nettles have a burning sting, so avoid bare skin contact. Once cooked, the leaves are edible and high in nutrients. Wearing gloves, the hairs can be removed by drying or cooking.
Box Elder
Box elder is a common deciduous tree native to North America. It has pinnate compound leaves with three to five leaflets.
- Leaves - Opposite, pinnate leaves divided into 3-5 leaflets. Typically 3 lobes on younger trees.
- Identifying traits - Greenish flowers hang in drooping clusters. Trees have light gray bark with deep ridges.
- Habitat - Floodplains, forest edges, fields and disturbed areas.
Box elder is not toxic to humans. While fast growing, it has weak wood that is susceptible to breaking. It provides shade but is considered by many to be a nuisance tree.
American Elderberry
The American elderberry is a large multi-stemmed shrub bearing edible berries used in jams, wines and medicines.
- Leaves - Opposite, pinnate leaves with 5-9 leaflets (typically 5-7).
- Identifying traits - Flat clusters of creamy white flowers in spring, berries in summer.
- Habitat - Along streambanks, ditches, roadsides and disturbed areas.
Elderberry leaf and stem parts contain a cyanide-inducing chemical and should not be eaten. But the berries are safe when fully ripe and cooked. Elderberry supplements help treat colds and flu.
Using Plant Identification to Stay Safe
Learning how to identify 5 common leaf plants can help you steer clear of stinging and poisonous species while foraging or in nature. Here are some tips:
- Examine the leaf shape and vein patterns
- Look for thorny stems or stinging hairs
- Note the color of leaves, flowers and berries
- Consider the plant's habitat
- Watch for fall leaf color changes
Field guides, apps and nature websites can further help distinguish lookalike plants. Avoid touching unknown plants. Teach children to recognize and leave hazardous plants alone.
With proper identification skills, you can safely enjoy the beauty and bounty of 5 leaf plants!
FAQs
How can you identify poison ivy?
Poison ivy has compound leaves divided into 3 shiny leaflets. It has reddish stems, white berries, and leaves that turn red in fall. It grows as a ground vine or climbs up trees and poles.
What are some traits of Virginia creeper?
Virginia creeper has 5 leaflets extending from one point on reddish stems. It has bluish berries and bright red fall foliage. The vine grows rapidly climbing up structures.
Why is wood nettle dangerous?
Wood nettle has rough, sandpaper-like oval leaves with serrated edges oppositely arranged. Stinging hairs on the leaves and stems cause pain and irritation upon contact.
Where does box elder grow?
Box elder is a deciduous tree found along floodplains, forest edges, fields, and disturbed areas. It has light gray bark with deep ridges and hanging green flowers.
How are elderberry leaves and berries different?
Elderberry leaves and stems contain a toxic chemical and should not be eaten. But the berries are safe when ripe and cooked. They are used for jams, wine, and medicinal supplements.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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