E-Flora BC: Electronic Atlas of the Flora of British Columbia

General:
Deciduous shrub 1-2 m tall or woody climbing vine up to 15 m tall, glabrous to hairy, exuding milky juice when cut.

Leaves:
Leaflets 3-5, rounded, obtuse or sometimes sharp-pointed at the tips, 3-7 cm long, turning scarlet in autumn.

Flowers:
Inflorescence in loose, axillary, often reflexed panicles; flowers bisexual or unisexual, 1-2 mm long, yellowish-green; stamens exserted.

Fruits:
Berrylike drupes, 5 mm long, white, glabrous.

Notes:
Many people develop an itching or burning rash after contacting this plant because of its slightly volatile oil.