You probably already know that direct contact with certain plants such as poison oak and poison ivy can cause red, itchy rashes that last for weeks, but did you know that there are many other plants that can cause contact dermatitis on exposed skin? Most of these are common plants that you may encounter on a regular basis in landscaping or parks. Following are four  plants that you should be careful about handling.

English Ivy

English ivy grows in abundance on both coasts, and in some areas such as Northern California, it's considered a nuisance plant because it takes over gardens, parks, and even woodlands. If you decide to cut it down, though, put on some thick gloves and wear a long-sleeved shirt and pants -- just touching English ivy makes some people break out in rashes that are severe enough to result in blisters.

Larkspur

A staple of residential cottage gardens and mountain wildflower meadows, Larkspur grows in long, bluish-purple spires that can also be used in indoor flower arrangements. However, simply handling the plant long enough to snip off a spire or two may make your hands and fingers break out in an angry red rash. Larkspur is best left alone and enjoyed for the beauty it brings to old-fashioned gardens and mountain meadows, but if you must bring it indoors, wear gloves while cutting its spires and warn other household residents that it is not to be touched.

Azalea

These lovely, vibrant bushes are commonly seen in gardens all over because they are easy to grow and provide excellent floral display during the spring. Always wear gloves and protective clothing when planting them in your yard, however, and resist the temptation to bring them indoors for use in a bouquet. It'll make your hands break out even more than larkspur will, particularly if your skin comes into direct contact with its sap.

Moonflower

Sometimes planted by gardeners to provide floral display at night, this nocturnal plant will set seed in favorable conditions and is likely to become a pest. If you decide to dig it or pull it out of the ground, bear in mind that the most you might get for your efforts is a huge rash on your hands and any other part of the skin that has come in contact with the leaves and stems of this plant.

In the event that you develop a rash or other form of contact dermatitis such as redness or swelling, make sure to contact an experienced skin care professional like Advanced Urgent Care for treatment and advice.

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