How to Identify Ivy Vines

Watch the ivy vine's growth year-round. The deciduous leaves of Boston ivy and poison ivy turn brilliant red in the fall before dropping. English ivy is evergreen in most regions.

Examine the shape of the leaves. Boston ivy, which is not ivy at all, but actually related to Virginia Creeper, has large three-lobed leaves. English, Algerian and Irish ivy also have three-lobed leaves that vary in size, depending on the variety and age of the plant. Poison ivy produces clusters of three leaflets.

Evaluate the leaf color. During the growing season, Boston ivy and poison ivy produce glossy green leaves. English ivy, as well as other ivies, may have green leaves or variegated cream and green leaves.

Look for flowers or fruit. Boston ivy and English ivy produce greenish flowers followed by small, poisonous black or purple fruit in the fall. Poison ivy produces yellow-green flowers and white to gray fruit.

Watch the plant's growth habit. Ivy and Boston ivy adhere to walls, rocks and even other trees through small aerial rootlets. Poison ivy is often a shrub or ground cover, although it may grow as a vine, as well. The vines have fuzzy stems.

Look at the vine's growing conditions. All three types of ivy grow in woodland settings, although ivy prefers partial shade and moist soil and may become sun-scorched in full sun. Poison ivy and Boston ivy tolerate full sun to partial shade, as well as dry, poor soil.