English Ivy Dermatitis: Sap Allergy, Not Leaf Contact

My son spent a day helping a neighbor clear English ivy. The next day he woke with itchy, spreading blisters on his arm. He saw no poison ivy in the patch—so why the misery?

Both English ivy (Hedera helix) and Algerian ivy (Hedera canariensis) can cause contact dermatitis in sensitive people. Both contain the allergen falcarinol.

Reactions follow direct contact with plant sap, not leaves. This contrasts with poison ivy, where any plant part can cause a reaction.

Recommendation

Wear gloves when clearing English ivy from landscapes and trees. Avoid getting sap on skin, especially on hot, sweaty days.

English ivy leaf

poison ivy leaf

Virginia creeper leaf