There is some question as to whether poison ivy should be described as a turf weed, though it does frequent the borders of many turf areas and often starts around trees, or other places where grass grows tall. This perennial can be harmless to some people and a very serious poison to others. It can occur as a climbing or a creeping plant. Stems are woody and clasping. Leaves are alternate and divided into three glossy leaflets. They may be nearly smooth or slightly lobed along the edges. Tiny green flowers with five petals are found along slender branches which are formed between the leaf stem and the branch. Poison ivy is considered a problem across southern Canada and all states.