Poison ivy, that is, Toxicodendron radicans. This protean plant can grow as a forb, a shrub, or, as you see in this photograph, a climbing vine. Regardless of its form, poison ivy is a reliable source not only of skin irritation but also of colorful fall foliage. The date was November 18, and the location US 183 in the town of Cedar Park, a large suburb immediately north of Austin.

© 2013 Steven Schwartzman