Plenty of Scouts and Scouters like to be able to identify different plants when in the bush, but there are some plants that are more important to know than others. Here are some tips to help you avoid hazardous plants on your next outing.
BEWARE
What it looks like:
- “Leaves of three, let it be”
- Bright green, almond-shaped leaves
- Centre leaf is larger than the other two
- Trailing vine or short woody stalks
Where it’s found:
- Every province in Canada, except for Newfoundland and Labrador
- Mostly along shorelines and roadsides, or in forest that’s not especially thick
What to do:
- Wash with soap and cold water
- Wash clothes in hot, soapy water (wear gloves!)
- Dry clothes in sunlight
- Treat with calamine lotion and cold compresses
- Don’t scratch!
What it looks like:
- Leaves like oak leaves
- Grows as a vine or shrub
Where it’s found:
- Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands
What to do:
- Wash with soap and cold water
- Wash clothes in hot, soapy water (wear gloves!)
- Dry clothes in sunlight
- Treat with calamine lotion and cold compresses
- Don’t scratch!
What it looks like:
- Shrub
- Seven to thirteen leaves on a stem
- Leaves have smooth edges and pointed tips
What it looks like:
- Leaves like oak leaves
- Grows as a vine or shrub
Where it’s found:
- Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands
What to do:
- Wash with soap and cold water
- Wash clothes in hot, soapy water (wear gloves!)
- Dry clothes in sunlight
- Treat with calamine lotion and cold compresses
- Don’t scratch!
What it looks like:
- Up to over five metres in height
- Large clusters of white flowers, similar to Queen Anne’s Lace
Where it’s found:
- Reported in most provinces
- Roadsides and ditches
What to do:
- Wash with soap and cold water
- Consult medical professionals if burning rash persists
What it looks like:
- About a metre tall
- Branched, flowering plant
- Yellow flowers, similar to Queen Anne’s Lace.
Where it’s found:
- Everywhere in Canada, except Nunavut
- Fields, meadows, trailsides, etc
What to do:
- Wash with soap and cold water
- Consult medical professionals if burning rash persists
Responses