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Poison Ivy is a character appearing in
American comic books An American comic book is a thin periodical literature originating in the United States, commonly between 24 and 64 pages, containing comics. While the form originated in 1933, American comic books first gained popularity after the 1938 publ ...
published by
DC Comics DC Comics (originally DC Comics, Inc., and also known simply as DC) is an American comic book publisher owned by DC Entertainment, a subsidiary of Warner Bros. Discovery. DC is an initialism for "Detective Comics", an American comic book seri ...
. Created by writer
Robert Kanigher Robert Kanigher (; June 18, 1915 – May 7, 2002)Social Security Death Index, social security #116-07-5117. was an American comic book writer and editor whose career spanned five decades. He was involved with the Wonder Woman franchise for over ...
and artist
Carmine Infantino Carmine Infantino (; May 24, 1925 – April 4, 2013) was an American comics artist and editing, editor, primarily for DC Comics, during the late 1950s and early 1960s period known as the Silver Age of Comic Books. Among his character creations are ...
, she debuted in ''
Batman Batman is a superhero who appears in American comic books published by DC Comics. Batman was created by the artist Bob Kane and writer Bill Finger, and debuted in Detective Comics 27, the 27th issue of the comic book ''Detective Comics'' on M ...
'' #181 (June 1966) and has become one of the superhero
Batman Batman is a superhero who appears in American comic books published by DC Comics. Batman was created by the artist Bob Kane and writer Bill Finger, and debuted in Detective Comics 27, the 27th issue of the comic book ''Detective Comics'' on M ...
's most enduring enemies belonging to the collective of adversaries that make up his
rogues gallery A rogues' gallery (or rogues gallery) is a police collection of mug shots or other images of criminal suspects kept for identification purposes. History In 1855, Allan Pinkerton, founder of the Pinkerton National Detective Agency, established ...
. In her comic book appearances, Poison Ivy is depicted as a doctor of botany-turned-
misanthropic Misanthropy is the general hatred, dislike, or distrust of the human species, human behavior, or human nature. A misanthrope or misanthropist is someone who holds such views or feelings. Misanthropy involves a negative evaluative attitude tow ...
ecoterrorist Eco-terrorism is an act of violence which is committed in support of environmental causes, against people or property. The United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) defines eco-terrorism as "...the use or threatened use of violence of ...
in
Gotham City Gotham City ( ), or simply Gotham, is a fictional city in the Northeastern United States that serves as the primary city appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. It is best known as the home of the superhero Batman and his List ...
named Pamela Lillian Isley, PhD ( ) with the ability to control all plant life. Empowered by an elemental force known as the "Green", Ivy attempts to protect the sanctity and supremacy of
nature Nature is an inherent character or constitution, particularly of the Ecosphere (planetary), ecosphere or the universe as a whole. In this general sense nature refers to the Scientific law, laws, elements and phenomenon, phenomena of the physic ...
at all costs by lashing out against humanity, which brings her into conflict with Batman. While usually portrayed as a
supervillain A supervillain, supervillainess or supercriminal is a major antagonist and variant of the villainous stock character who possesses Superpower (ability), superpowers. The character type is sometimes found in comic books and is often the primary ...
, Ivy has also been an
antihero An antihero (sometimes spelled as anti-hero or two words anti hero) or anti-heroine is a character in a narrative (in literature, film, TV, etc.) who may lack some conventional heroic qualities and attributes, such as idealism and morality. Al ...
ine at times as well as the primary love interest of
Harley Quinn Harley Quinn (Dr. Harleen Frances Quinzel, PhD) is a fictional American character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. She was created by Paul Dini and Bruce Timm for ''Batman: The Animated Series'' as a henchwoman for the ...
as of
The New 52 The New 52 was the 2011 revamp and relaunch by DC Comics of its entire Line (comics), line of ongoing monthly superhero American comic books, comic books. Following the conclusion of the "Flashpoint (comics), Flashpoint" Fictional crossover, cros ...
and
DC Rebirth DC Rebirth is a 2016 relaunch by the American comic book publisher DC Comics of its entire Line (comics), line of ongoing monthly superhero comic book titles. Using the end of The New 52 (2011–2016) initiative in May 2016 as its launching point ...
relaunches. A one-piece costume adorned with leaves and vines serves as Poison Ivy's visual motif. Poison Ivy has been adapted in various media incarnations, having been portrayed by
Uma Thurman Uma Karuna Thurman (born April 29, 1970) is an American actress. She has performed in a variety of films, from romantic comedies and dramas to science fiction and action films. Following her appearances on the December 1985 and May 1986 cover ...
in the 1997 film '' Batman & Robin'';
Clare Foley Clare Foley is an American actress. She is known for playing the roles of Ruby Taylor in '' Do No Harm'', Ashley in '' Sinister'', a young version of Piper in ''Orange Is the New Black ''Orange Is the New Black'' (sometimes abbreviated to ''O ...
, Maggie Geha and Peyton List in the
Fox Foxes are small-to-medium-sized omnivorous mammals belonging to several genera of the family Canidae. They have a flattened skull; upright, triangular ears; a pointed, slightly upturned snout; and a long, bushy tail ("brush"). Twelve species ...
television series '' Gotham''; and
Bridget Regan Bridget Catherine Regan ( ; born February 3, 1982) is an American actress best known for her lead roles as Kahlan Amnell in the ABC adventure romance series ''Legend of the Seeker'' (2008–10) and Sasha Cooper in the last three seasons of the ...
in
The CW The CW Network, LLC (commonly referred to as The CW or simply CW) is an American commercial broadcast television network which is controlled by Nexstar Media Group through a 75% ownership interest. The network's name is derived from the firs ...
's
Arrowverse The Arrowverse is an American Superhero fiction, superhero media franchise and shared universe that is centered on various interconnected television series based on DC Comics superhero characters, primarily airing on The CW as well as web series ...
series ''
Batwoman Batwoman is a name of several superheroes appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics, depicted as female counterparts and allies of Batman similarly to Batgirl. The original version of the character, Kathy Kane (eventually given t ...
''.
Diane Pershing Diane Pershing is an American voice actress, film critic, and novelist. She began her singing career as a back-up singer for Johnny Mathis and went on to appear in the show group, The Establishment, on tour and on TV. She also voiced Poison Ivy ...
,
Tasia Valenza Tasia Valenza is an American actress. She is most known for being the voice of Poison Ivy in the '' Arkham series'' from 2009 to 2015 as well as in a number of other video games, such as Sniper Wolf in '' Metal Gear Solid'' and her various roles ...
,
Lake Bell Lake Siegel Bell (born March 24, 1979) is an American actress, screenwriter, and director. She has appeared in various television series, including '' Boston Legal'' (2004–2006), ''Surface'' (2005–2006), '' How to Make It in America'' (2010 ...
,
Tara Strong Tara Lyn Strong (; born February 12, 1973) is a Canadian and American actress. She is known for her voice work in animation, websites, and video games. Strong's voice roles include animated series such as '' The Powerpuff Girls'', '' The Fair ...
, and others have provided the character's voice ranging from animation to video games.


Publication history

Poison Ivy was created by
Robert Kanigher Robert Kanigher (; June 18, 1915 – May 7, 2002)Social Security Death Index, social security #116-07-5117. was an American comic book writer and editor whose career spanned five decades. He was involved with the Wonder Woman franchise for over ...
and
Carmine Infantino Carmine Infantino (; May 24, 1925 – April 4, 2013) was an American comics artist and editing, editor, primarily for DC Comics, during the late 1950s and early 1960s period known as the Silver Age of Comic Books. Among his character creations are ...
; the character first appeared in ''Batman'' #181 (June 1966). Infantino discussed how the character was created: "The only reason she came about was because of
Catwoman Catwoman is a character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane, she debuted as "the Cat" in ''Batman (comic book), Batman'' #1 (spring 1940). She has become one of the superhero Batman' ...
on the
Batman Batman is a superhero who appears in American comic books published by DC Comics. Batman was created by the artist Bob Kane and writer Bill Finger, and debuted in Detective Comics 27, the 27th issue of the comic book ''Detective Comics'' on M ...
show. They wanted more female villains. What was the other one I did... the Silver Fox! And then
Batgirl Batgirl is the name of several fictional superheroines appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics, depicted as female counterparts and allies to the superhero Batman. The character Bette Kane, Betty Kane was introduced into publica ...
. That show, because of it we were selling a million copies a month. But that show, when it died, so did the comic books." Poison Ivy's origin is depicted in
Neil Gaiman Neil Richard MacKinnon Gaiman (; born Neil Richard Gaiman; 10 November 1960) is an English author of short fiction, novels, comic books, audio theatre, and screenplays. His works include the comic series ''The Sandman (comic book), The Sandma ...
's short story "Pavane" (''
Secret Origins ''Secret Origins'' is the title of several comic book series published by DC Comics which featured the origin stories of the publisher's various characters. Publication history ''Secret Origins'' was first published as a one-shot in 1961 and c ...
'' #36, 1988), during which she declares herself to be nature's daughter and the world's rightful ruler; it is later revealed that her powers were gifted to her by the environmental force known as the Green. Ivy is considered extremely beautiful within the DC Universe, and is often presented as a temptress. She is typically depicted barefoot with long flowing hair, plant vines extending over her limbs, and a green one-piece suit adorned with leaves, with occasional variations to her skin tone. Writer J. T. Krul, who helped further define Poison Ivy's personality, summed up her character with the following quote: After appearing in various
DC Comics DC Comics (originally DC Comics, Inc., and also known simply as DC) is an American comic book publisher owned by DC Entertainment, a subsidiary of Warner Bros. Discovery. DC is an initialism for "Detective Comics", an American comic book seri ...
publications, Poison Ivy starred in her first solo comic book series with the 2016
miniseries In the United States, a miniseries or mini-series is a television show or series that tells a story in a predetermined, limited number of episodes. Many miniseries can also be referred to, and shown, as a television film. " Limited series" is ...
'' Poison Ivy: Cycle of Life and Death''. This was followed by the 2021
graphic novel A graphic novel is a self-contained, book-length form of sequential art. The term ''graphic novel'' is often applied broadly, including fiction, non-fiction, and Anthology, anthologized work, though this practice is highly contested by comics sc ...
'' Poison Ivy: Thorns'', and the eponymously titled ''
Poison Ivy Poison ivy is a type of allergenic plant in the genus '' Toxicodendron'' native to Asia and North America. Formerly considered a single species, '' Toxicodendron radicans'', poison ivies are now generally treated as a complex of three separate s ...
'', an ongoing comic book series first published in 2022. The character also co-starred in the miniseries '' Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy'' (20192020).


Fictional character biography


Pre-Crisis

Dr. Lillian Rose, PhD is a promising botanist who is persuaded by Marc LeGrand into assisting him with the theft of an Egyptian artifact containing ancient herbs. Fearing she would implicate him in the theft, he attempts to poison her with the herbs, which are deadly and untraceable. She survives this murder attempt and discovers she has acquired an immunity to all natural toxins and diseases.''World's Finest'' #252 (September 1978). DC Comics.


Post-Crisis

Following the events of the DC maxi-series comic ''
Crisis on Infinite Earths ''Crisis on Infinite Earths'' is a 1985 to 1986 American comic book fictional crossover, crossover series published by DC Comics. Written by Marv Wolfman and penciller, pencilled by George Pérez, it was first released as a 12-issue limited ser ...
'', which massively rebooted DC Universe history and continuity, Poison Ivy's origins were revised in ''
Secret Origins ''Secret Origins'' is the title of several comic book series published by DC Comics which featured the origin stories of the publisher's various characters. Publication history ''Secret Origins'' was first published as a one-shot in 1961 and c ...
'' #36, 1988, written by
Neil Gaiman Neil Richard MacKinnon Gaiman (; born Neil Richard Gaiman; 10 November 1960) is an English author of short fiction, novels, comic books, audio theatre, and screenplays. His works include the comic series ''The Sandman (comic book), The Sandma ...
. Her real name is Dr. Pamela Isley, PhD, a
Gotham City Gotham City ( ), or simply Gotham, is a fictional city in the Northeastern United States that serves as the primary city appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. It is best known as the home of the superhero Batman and his List ...
botanist. She grows up wealthy with emotionally distant parents and later studies advanced botanical biochemistry at a university with
Alec Holland Alec Holland is a fictional character in comic books published by DC Comics. He is most notably a character in the various ''Swamp Thing'' series. Holland appeared in his first live-action adaptation in the 1982 film ''Swamp Thing'' played by Ra ...
under Dr. Jason Woodrue. Isley, a shy girl, is easily seduced by her professor. Woodrue injects Isley with poisons and toxins as an experiment, causing her transformation. She nearly dies twice as a result of these poisonings, driving her insane. Later, Woodrue flees from the authorities leaving Isley in the hospital for six months. Enraged at the betrayal, she suffers from violent mood swings, being sweet one moment and evil the next. When her boyfriend has a car accident after mysteriously suffering from a massive
fungal A fungus (: fungi , , , or ; or funguses) is any member of the group of eukaryotic organisms that includes microorganisms such as yeasts and molds, as well as the more familiar mushrooms. These organisms are classified as one of the tradit ...
overgrowth, Isley drops out of school and leaves Seattle, eventually settling in Gotham City.''Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight'' #43. DC Comics. She begins her criminal career by threatening to release her suffocating spores into the air unless the city meets her demands. Batman, who appears in Gotham that very same year, thwarts her scheme, and she is incarcerated in
Arkham Asylum Arkham Asylum () is a fictional psychiatric hospital appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics, commonly in stories featuring Batman. It first appeared in ''Batman'' #258 (October 1974), written by Dennis O'Neil with art by Irv N ...
.''Batman: Shadow of the Bat'' Annual #3. DC Comics. From this point on, she has a kind of obsession with Batman, him being the only person she could not control due to his strong will and focus. Over the years, she develops plant-like superpowers, the most noticeable being a lethal toxin in her lips; she is literally able to kill with a kiss. In subsequent issues, she states that she only started a life of crime to attain sufficient funds to find a location to be alone with her plants, undisturbed by humanity. A few years later, she attempts to leave Gotham forever, escaping Arkham to settle on a desert island in the
Caribbean The Caribbean ( , ; ; ; ) is a region in the middle of the Americas centered around the Caribbean Sea in the Atlantic Ocean, North Atlantic Ocean, mostly overlapping with the West Indies. Bordered by North America to the north, Central America ...
. She transforms the barren wasteland into a second Eden, and is, for the first time in her life, happy. It is soon firebombed, however, when an American-owned corporation tests their weapons systems out on what they think is an abandoned island. Ivy returns to Gotham with a vengeance, punishing those responsible. After being willingly apprehended by Batman, she resolves that she can never leave Gotham, at least not until the world was safe for plants. From then on, she dedicates herself to the impossible mission of "purifying" Gotham.''Batman: Poison Ivy''. DC Comics. At one point, Batman travels to Seattle to ascertain information on Pamela Isley's life before she became Poison Ivy. Here, Batman states that both of Pamela's parents are dead. When and why they died has been left undetermined. While in Arkham, Poison Ivy receives a message through flowers that someone is to help her escape. That night, two women, Holly and Eva, successfully break Ivy out and bring her back to their employer. She is less than happy to discover that it is the
Floronic Man The Floronic Man (Jason Woodrue), also known as the Plant Master, Floro, and the Seeder, is a supervillain appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. The character has been portrayed in live-action by John Glover in the 1997 film ...
, formerly known as Dr. Jason Woodrue, her former college professor that conducted the experiments on her. The only human portion of him remaining is his head, while the rest of his body is plant-based. After striking a deal with him in the tunnels of Gotham, Ivy receives a trunk full of money in return for samples of her DNA. Woodrue intends to combine their DNA to create a "child", all while flooding the streets of Gotham with high-grade
marijuana Cannabis (), commonly known as marijuana (), weed, pot, and ganja, List of slang names for cannabis, among other names, is a non-chemically uniform psychoactive drug from the ''Cannabis'' plant. Native to Central or South Asia, cannabis has ...
. The purpose of this is to create a world economy run on
hemp Hemp, or industrial hemp, is a plant in the botanical class of ''Cannabis sativa'' cultivars grown specifically for industrial and consumable use. It can be used to make a wide range of products. Along with bamboo, hemp is among the fastest ...
and to have their offspring control it. Batman intervenes, but is overcome by Woodrue's henchwomen, Holly and Eva. However, Ivy turns on Floronic Man and lets Batman go to fight the intoxicated maniac. In the end, Batman decapitates the Floronic Man, and Ivy escapes with her money. At times, Ivy demonstrates positive and maternal traits. When
Gotham City Gotham City ( ), or simply Gotham, is a fictional city in the Northeastern United States that serves as the primary city appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. It is best known as the home of the superhero Batman and his List ...
is destroyed in an
earthquake An earthquakealso called a quake, tremor, or tembloris the shaking of the Earth's surface resulting from a sudden release of energy in the lithosphere that creates seismic waves. Earthquakes can range in intensity, from those so weak they ...
and declared No Man's Land, she holds dominion over Robinson Park and turns it into a tropical paradise rather than fight over territory like most of Batman's enemies. Sixteen children who are orphaned during the quake come to live with her as she sympathizes with them having suffered a traumatic childhood herself. She cares for them like sons and daughters, despite her usual
misanthropy Misanthropy is the general hatred, dislike, or distrust of the human species, human behavior, or human nature. A misanthrope or misanthropist is someone who holds such views or feelings. Misanthropy involves a negative evaluative attitude t ...
. That winter,
Clayface Clayface is an alias used by several supervillains appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Most incarnations of the character possess clay-like bodies and shapeshifting abilities, and all of them are List of Batman family enemies ...
(Basil Karlo) pays Ivy a visit, hoping to form a bargain with her. This would entail her growing fruits and vegetables, having the orphans harvest them, and him selling the produce to the highest bidder. She wants nothing to do with the plan, and she attempts to kill him with a kiss. Clayface overpowers her, however, and imprisons Ivy and the orphans for six months in a chamber under the park's lake. He feeds her salt and keeps her from the sun to weaken her. Eventually, Batman comes and discovers the imprisoned orphans and Ivy. The two agree to work together to take Karlo down. Batman battles Clayface and instructs Robin to blow up the lake bed above, allowing the rushing water to break apart the mud, effectively freeing Ivy. She fights Karlo, ensnaring him in the branches of a tree and fatally kissing him. She then proceeds to sink him down into the ground, where he becomes fertilizer for Ivy's plants. Batman, originally intending to take the orphans away from Ivy, recognizes that staying with her is what is best for them, and they remain in her care until the city is restored. Also, as part of a bargain to keep her freedom, Batman arranges it so that Ivy provides fresh produce to the starving hordes of earthquake survivors.''Batman: Shadow of the Bat'' #88, ''Detective Comics'' #735. DC Comics. Soon after, Ivy finds
Harley Quinn Harley Quinn (Dr. Harleen Frances Quinzel, PhD) is a fictional American character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. She was created by Paul Dini and Bruce Timm for ''Batman: The Animated Series'' as a henchwoman for the ...
, who had almost been murdered by
the Joker The Joker is a supervillain appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by Bill Finger, Bob Kane, and Jerry Robinson, the character first appeared in the debut issue of the comic book ''Batman (comic book), Batman'' on ...
, among the debris of the earthquake and nurses her back to health. The two have been best friends and partners-in-crime ever since. After Gotham City is reopened to the public, the city council wants to evict her from the park and send her back to Arkham Asylum, as they are uncomfortable with the thought of a "psychotic
eco-terrorist Eco-terrorism is an act of violence which is committed in support of environmental causes, against people or property. The United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) defines eco-terrorism as "...the use or threatened use of violence of ...
controlling the equivalent of 30-odd square blocks." They also mistakenly believe that the orphans in Ivy's care are hostages. The
Gotham City Police Department Gotham City ( ), or simply Gotham, is a fictional city in the Northeastern United States that serves as the primary city appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. It is best known as the home of the superhero Batman and his List ...
threaten to spray the park with R.C. Sixty, a powerful
herbicide Herbicides (, ), also commonly known as weed killers, are substances used to control undesired plants, also known as weeds.EPA. February 201Pesticides Industry. Sales and Usage 2006 and 2007: Market Estimates. Summary in press releasMain page f ...
that most certainly would have killed every living plant in the park, including Ivy, and more than likely do harm to the children. Ivy refuses to leave the park to the city and let them destroy the paradise she had created, so she chooses
martyr A martyr (, ''mártys'', 'witness' Word stem, stem , ''martyr-'') is someone who suffers persecution and death for advocating, renouncing, or refusing to renounce or advocate, a religious belief or other cause as demanded by an external party. In ...
dom. It is only after Rose, one of the orphans, is accidentally poisoned by Ivy that the hardened eco-terrorist surrenders herself to the authorities to save the girl's life. Batman says that, as much as she would hate to admit it, Ivy is still more human than plant. Later on, she and other Gotham characters are manipulated by the
Riddler The Riddler (Edward Nigma, later Edward Nygma or Edward Nashton) is a supervillain appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. The character was created by Bill Finger and Dick Sprang, and debuted in ''Detective Comics'' #140 in O ...
and
Hush Hush may refer to: Film and television Film * ''Hush'' (1921 film), starring Clara Kimball Young * ''Hush'' (1998 film), starring Gwyneth Paltrow * ''Hush!'' (film), a 2001 Japanese film directed by Ryosuke Hashiguchi *''Hush!'', a 2002 film dir ...
. Her task is to hypnotize both
Superman Superman is a superhero created by writer Jerry Siegel and artist Joe Shuster, which first appeared in the comic book ''Action Comics'' Action Comics 1, #1, published in the United States on April 18, 1938.The copyright date of ''Action Comics ...
and
Catwoman Catwoman is a character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane, she debuted as "the Cat" in ''Batman (comic book), Batman'' #1 (spring 1940). She has become one of the superhero Batman' ...
, using Catwoman to steal ransom money from
Bane Bane may refer to: Fictional characters * Bane (DC Comics), an adversary of Batman * Bane (''Harry Potter''), a centaur in the ''Harry Potter'' series * Bane (''The Matrix''), a character in the ''Matrix'' film trilogy * Bane the Druid, a Gua ...
after the original plan is interrupted by Batman while Superman serves as a 'bodyguard' when she hides in Metropolis. However, she abandons Catwoman to be killed by Killer Croc, and Batman is able to keep Superman busy in a fight (aided by the
Kryptonite Kryptonite is a fictional material that appears primarily in Superman stories published by DC Comics. In its best-known form, it is a green, crystalline material originating from Superman's home world of Krypton (comics), Krypton that emits a u ...
ring he was given long ago) long enough for him to escape Ivy's control. Soon afterwards, the Riddler, who is being chased and attacked by
Hush Hush may refer to: Film and television Film * ''Hush'' (1921 film), starring Clara Kimball Young * ''Hush'' (1998 film), starring Gwyneth Paltrow * ''Hush!'' (film), a 2001 Japanese film directed by Ryosuke Hashiguchi *''Hush!'', a 2002 film dir ...
, approaches Ivy and seeks her protection. Ivy, who is angered by the manipulation, battles the Riddler physically and psychologically. She comes to physically dominate her opponent, humiliating Riddler and temporarily breaking his spirit.''Detective Comics'' #797–799. DC Comics. Ivy comes to believe that her powers are killing the children she had looked after, so with Bruce Wayne's help, she willingly undergoes treatment to become human again. Soon after, she is convinced by Hush to take another serum to restore her powers and apparently dies in the process. However, in ''Batman: Gotham Knights'', when her grave is visited shortly thereafter, it is covered with ivy, creating the impression her death would be short-lived. Shortly after, Poison Ivy appears briefly in Robinson Park, killing two corrupt cops who killed one of her orphans (although whether this takes place before or after the aforementioned storyline is unknown).''Gotham Central'' #32. DC Comics. "
One Year Later "One Year Later" is a 2006 comic book storyline running through the books published by DC Comics. As the title suggests, it involves a narrative jump exactly one year into the future of the DC Universe following the events of the "Infinite Crisi ...
", Ivy is alive and active. Her control over flora has increased, referred to as being on a par with
Swamp Thing Swamp Thing is a superhero and antihero appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by writer Len Wein and artist Bernie Wrightson, the Swamp Thing has had several different incarnations throughout his publication. The ch ...
or Floronic Man. She also appears to have resumed her crusade against the corporate enemies of the environment with a new
fanaticism Fanaticism is a belief or behavior involving uncritical zeal or an obsessive enthusiasm. The political theorist Zachary R. Goldsmith provides a "cluster account" of the concept of fanaticism, identifying ten main attributes that, in various com ...
, regarding Batman no longer as a main opponent, but as a "hindrance". After arriving back from a year-long absence, Batman discovers that Ivy has been feeding people including "tiresome lovers", "incompetent henchmen", and those who "returned her smile" to a giant plant which would digest the victims slowly and painfully. She refers to these murders as a "guilty pleasure". In an unprecedented event, her victims' souls merge with the plant, creating a botanical monster called ''Harvest'', who seeks revenge upon Poison Ivy. With the intervention of Batman however, she is saved. Poison Ivy is left in critical condition, and the whereabouts of Harvest are unknown.


Other storylines

In ''Countdown'' #37, the
Pied Piper The Pied Piper of Hamelin (, also known as the Pan Piper or the Rat-Catcher of Hamelin) is the title character of a legend from the town of Hamelin (Hameln), Lower Saxony, Germany. The legend dates back to the Middle Ages. The earliest refere ...
and the
Trickster In mythology and the study of folklore and religion, a trickster is a character in a story (god, goddess, spirit, human or anthropomorphisation) who exhibits a great degree of intellect or secret knowledge and uses it to play tricks or otherw ...
are hiding out in a greenhouse, picking fruits and vegetables from the plants. They run into Ivy, who is talking to her plants (presumably being told that Piper and Trickster hurt them), to which she reacts by tying them up in vines with the intention of killing them. She is then shown to have joined the Injustice League Unlimited and is one of the villains featured in ''
Salvation Run ''Salvation Run'' is a seven-issue 2007-2008 DC Comics limited series which was designed to tie into the company's major event series ''Final Crisis'' in 2008. Premise The series, which is based on a pitch from George R. R. Martin, follows a wor ...
''. In the "
Battle for the Cowl "Batman: Battle for the Cowl" is a 2009 comic book storyline published by DC Comics, consisting of an eponymous, three-issue miniseries written and penciled by Tony Daniel, as well as a number of tie-in books. The central story details the chaos ...
" storyline, she is coerced by a new Black Mask into joining his group of villains that aims to take over Gotham. She and
Killer Croc Killer Croc (Waylon Jones) is a supervillain appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by Gerry Conway, Don Newton and Gene Colan, the character was introduced in ''Detective Comics'' #523 (February 1983). He has become on ...
unsuccessfully attempt to murder
Damian Wayne Damian Thomas Wayne is a superhero appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics, commonly in association with Batman. He was created by Grant Morrison and Andy Kubert. Damian Wayne is the biological son of Bruce Wayne/Batman. His mo ...
. Shortly after, she escapes from Black Mask's control and forms an alliance with
Catwoman Catwoman is a character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane, she debuted as "the Cat" in ''Batman (comic book), Batman'' #1 (spring 1940). She has become one of the superhero Batman' ...
and
Harley Quinn Harley Quinn (Dr. Harleen Frances Quinzel, PhD) is a fictional American character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. She was created by Paul Dini and Bruce Timm for ''Batman: The Animated Series'' as a henchwoman for the ...
, leading into the ongoing series ''Gotham City Sirens''. During Hush's ploy to hurt Batman through hurting his loved ones, Hush kidnaps Catwoman and surgically removes her heart. After being saved by Batman, Catwoman is operated on by some of the most gifted surgeons in the world, including
Doctor Mid-Nite Doctor Mid-Nite (or Doctor Midnight) is the name of multiple superheroes published in American comic books by DC Comics. The original version of the character was first created by writer Charles Reizenstein and artist Stanley Josephs Aschmeier in ...
and Mr. Terrific.
Zatanna Zatanna Zatara (), known mononymously as Zatanna, is a superhero appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. The character was created by Gardner Fox and Murphy Anderson, and first appeared in ''Hawkman (comic book), Hawkman'' #4 (N ...
also gives her a magic antidote to help heal her wounds. To get even with Hush, Selina enlists the help of Poison Ivy,
Harley Quinn Harley Quinn (Dr. Harleen Frances Quinzel, PhD) is a fictional American character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. She was created by Paul Dini and Bruce Timm for ''Batman: The Animated Series'' as a henchwoman for the ...
,
Oracle An oracle is a person or thing considered to provide insight, wise counsel or prophetic predictions, most notably including precognition of the future, inspired by deities. If done through occultic means, it is a form of divination. Descript ...
, Holly Robinson, and Slam Bradley to track down all of Hush's accounts, pilfer them, and leave him penniless. Selina pays Holly, Harley, and Ivy over $30 million each, hoping that they would use the funds to leave Gotham to start fresh somewhere else. However, Harley uses her money to go on a shopping spree, while Ivy gives her money away to organizations in
Madagascar Madagascar, officially the Republic of Madagascar, is an island country that includes the island of Madagascar and numerous smaller peripheral islands. Lying off the southeastern coast of Africa, it is the world's List of islands by area, f ...
and
Costa Rica Costa Rica, officially the Republic of Costa Rica, is a country in Central America. It borders Nicaragua to the north, the Caribbean Sea to the northeast, Panama to the southeast, and the Pacific Ocean to the southwest, as well as Maritime bo ...
dedicated to
reforestation Reforestation is the practice of restoring previously existing forests and woodlands that have been destroyed or damaged. The prior forest destruction might have happened through deforestation, clearcutting or wildfires. Three important purpose ...
. After rescuing Catwoman from Boneblaster, a new villain trying to make a name for himself, Poison Ivy takes Catwoman back to the Riddler's townhouse. When there, Catwoman sees that Ivy has been keeping the Riddler under mind control so that she and Harley could use his townhouse as a hideout. Here, Catwoman decides that with Gotham City more dangerous than ever with all the gang wars and a new Batman, a partnership with the other two women would be advantageous. However, Ivy fears that Catwoman has lost her edge and prowess, and consults with
Zatanna Zatanna Zatara (), known mononymously as Zatanna, is a superhero appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. The character was created by Gardner Fox and Murphy Anderson, and first appeared in ''Hawkman (comic book), Hawkman'' #4 (N ...
on the nature of Catwoman's injuries. Zatanna responds that Catwoman has psychological wounds that would need healing. Ivy resolves that she and Harley would provide Catwoman with "positive female reinforcement". The three then agree to become a team. However, Harley and Ivy have one condition that Catwoman is to reveal to them Batman's secret identity. Eventually, Ivy and the other Sirens ambush the Riddler at his office (with Ivy using her plants to truss and gag his secretary), telling him that they've been framed for the murder of a young nurse. He agrees to help clear their names, and during the discussion Ivy reveals that she has recently taken up a job at the Gotham division of S.T.A.R. Labs under an assumed name (Dr. Paula Irving). She is eventually kidnapped and placed in a specialized containment unit by a researcher named Alisa Adams, but escapes and turns the table on her captor by binding her with vines. Ivy initially informs Adams that she plans to kill her, but instead decides to let her live after seeing a photograph of Alisa's young daughter. Ivy then threatens Alisa into keeping her mouth shut about her true identity, telling her that she will change her mind and kill her if she reveals her secret to anyone. When Harley Quinn betrays her friends and breaks into Arkham Asylum with the goal of killing the Joker, she ultimately chooses instead to release Joker from his cell, and together the two orchestrate a violent takeover of the facility. Poison Ivy arrives and tries to convince Harley Quinn that the Joker is evil, but Harley Quinn refuses to believe her and knocks Poison Ivy unconscious. After they are defeated by Catwoman and Batman, Catwoman then tells Poison Ivy that they are no longer friends, after Ivy had drugged Catwoman in an attempt to discover Batman's identity. Poison Ivy is taken to Arkham Asylum.''Gotham City Sirens'' #24 (June 2011). DC Comics. Ivy soon escapes and ambushes Harley in her cell, binding and gagging her former friend before she can defend herself. Ivy struggles with the decision to execute Harley for her betrayal, but ultimately releases her after realizing that she is still her friend. Together, the two set off to find Catwoman and make her pay for leaving them behind.''Gotham City Sirens'' #25 (July 2011). DC Comics. The two of them find Catwoman and fight her on the streets. While fighting, Catwoman confesses that she saw good in the both of them and only wanted to help them. When she tells them that she only kept tabs on them because Batman wanted to keep them under control, Ivy lashes out onto the city by using giant vines to destroy buildings, cursing at Batman for manipulating her. Batman is about to arrest them, but Catwoman helps the two of them escape.


The New 52

In 2011, "
The New 52 The New 52 was the 2011 revamp and relaunch by DC Comics of its entire Line (comics), line of ongoing monthly superhero American comic books, comic books. Following the conclusion of the "Flashpoint (comics), Flashpoint" Fictional crossover, cros ...
" rebooted the DC universe. Poison Ivy is recruited into the covert-ops group known as the
Birds of Prey Birds of prey or predatory birds, also known as (although not the same as) raptors, are hypercarnivorous bird species that actively predation, hunt and feed on other vertebrates (mainly mammals, reptiles and smaller birds). In addition to speed ...
. Though she is specifically hand-picked by the team's leader,
Black Canary Black Canary is the name of two superheroines appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. As one of the earliest female superheroes in the DC Comics universe, the character has made numerous appearances in prominent team-up titles, ...
, the other members of the group protest Ivy's inclusion, citing her violent past and connections to various murders. These suspicions are proven correct when Ivy poisons the team and forces them to attack corrupt companies she wants to destroy, until
Katana A is a Japanese sword characterized by a curved, single-edged blade with a circular or squared guard and long grip to accommodate two hands. Developed later than the ''tachi'', it was used by samurai in feudal Japan and worn with the edge fa ...
apparently kills her. Ivy survives the injuries and returns to Gotham, breaking out Clayface/Basil Karlo to manipulate him into becoming her husband. Batman intervenes to help her, mainly because the locations she attacked were the
Penguin Penguins are a group of aquatic flightless birds from the family Spheniscidae () of the order Sphenisciformes (). They live almost exclusively in the Southern Hemisphere. Only one species, the Galápagos penguin, is equatorial, with a sm ...
's properties. Poison Ivy ends up captured by Penguin's men. She is buried alive by them, but survives long enough to be rescued by Penguin's right-hand man
Emperor Penguin The emperor penguin (''Aptenodytes forsteri'') is the tallest and heaviest of all living penguin species and is Endemism in birds, endemic to Antarctica. The male and female are similar in plumage and size, reaching in length and weighing fr ...
who has taken over his boss' businesses after the Joker's return. He proposes an alliance with her. However, Karlo, whom Batman had set free from Ivy's control, tracks down and attacks Poison Ivy. Emperor Penguin later calls in a favor from Poison Ivy. This led to Emperor Penguin empowering himself with a chemical that is made from one of Poison Ivy's plant concoctions, the
Man-Bat Man-Bat (Dr. Robert Kirkland "Kirk" Langstrom) is a fictional character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Introduced in ''Detective Comics'' #400 (June 1970) as an enemy of the superhero Batman, the character belongs to t ...
Serum, and the Venom drug. The character's origin, in this new DC universe, was presented in a special issue of ''
Detective Comics ''Detective Comics'' (later retitled as ''Batman Detective Comics'') is an American comic book series published by Detective Comics, later shortened to DC Comics. The first volume, published from 1937 to 2011 (and later continued in 2016), is ...
'' (#23.1), during the "Villains Month" event in September 2013. Pamela Isley was born with a skin condition that prevented her from leaving her home. She spent most of her limited time outside in her family's garden. Her
abusive Abuse is the act of improper usage or treatment of a person or thing, often to unfairly or improperly gain benefit. Abuse can come in many forms, such as: physical or verbal maltreatment, injury, assault, violation, rape, unjust practices, ...
father murdered her mother and buried her in the garden. While in college, Pamela sold pheromone pills to other students to study its effects until she was caught by police. She used a powerful version of the pills to control the dean's mind so he would drop the charges and let her graduate with honors. While visiting her father in prison, she kissed him, and the poison that was secreted from her lips killed him. Later she landed an internship in
Wayne Enterprises Wayne Enterprises, also known as Wayne Corporation, Waynecorp, Wayne Industries, Wayne Technologies and Waynetech, is a fictional company appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics, commonly in association with the superhero Batm ...
' Bio-Chemistry Division developing pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications. She was fired after Bruce Wayne discovered her using company resources for an unauthorized project to brainwash people through plant pheromones. In an accident similar to that which created Mr. Freeze, Pamela attacks the security guards sent to escort her out and is exposed to lethal doses of her chemicals, triggering a mutation that gives her green skin, immunity to all toxins, and the ability to manipulate plant life.


''Cycle of Life and Death''

In January 2016, DC Comics debuted Ivy's first solo comic book series, '' Poison Ivy: Cycle of Life and Death''. The series begins with Ivy attempting to go straight by returning to her science career. Under her human identity of Dr. Pamela Isley, she joins the plant sciences department at the famed Gotham Botanical Gardens, but things quickly get complicated when Luisa Cruz, Ivy's friend and mentor, is murdered via poisoning. Ivy investigates the murder whilst completing a genetic engineering research project begun by Cruz that culminates in the creation of two plant-human hybrid children known as Rose and Hazel. With the help of Selina Kyle and fellow researcher Darshan, Poison Ivy finds that the Gotham Botanical Gardens are performing experiments, using Ivy's research, which result in the creation of another plant-human hybrid child known as Thorn. Ivy destroys the laboratory and rescues the child. Ivy raises Rose, Hazel and Thorn who grow to adult size at an exponential rate, becoming young women within 35 weeks. When the girls sneak out to see Gotham City at night for the first time, they cause an incident at a strip club that gets the police involved, and Ivy has to help them escape. Returning to the apartment, Ivy locks Rose, Hazel and Thorn away so they will not leave again. Ivy finds Doctor Eric Grimley, Chair of the Gotham Botanical Gardens Research Department, waiting for her. Grimley had been conducting experiments with Ivy's research to cure his own cancer; he had then murdered Luisa because she was suspicious of the experiments he was performing. Now, with his cancer returning, he intends to harvest Rose, Thorn, and Hazel for spores to be used as another cure. He attacks Ivy, and transforms into a giant, plant-like monster. Darshan arrives and releases the girls. Ivy, Rose, Hazel, Thorn, and Darshan, along with
Swamp Thing Swamp Thing is a superhero and antihero appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by writer Len Wein and artist Bernie Wrightson, the Swamp Thing has had several different incarnations throughout his publication. The ch ...
(who seeks to kill Grimley for trying to break the cycle of life and death) fight and defeat Grimley, with Thorn hacking him up with a machete. Darshan later helps Rose, Thorn, and Hazel leave Ivy, reasoning that they were getting so restless they would go eventually with or without his help. They set off away from Gotham to places unknown, saying they plan to live out their lives regardless of how short they may be.


DC Universe

DC Comics began the next relaunch of its entire line of titles, called "
DC Rebirth DC Rebirth is a 2016 relaunch by the American comic book publisher DC Comics of its entire Line (comics), line of ongoing monthly superhero comic book titles. Using the end of The New 52 (2011–2016) initiative in May 2016 as its launching point ...
", in June 2016. DC opted to rebrand its titles under the "DC Universe" name in December 2017, using the continuity established from DC Rebirth. In the "Better Together" story arc of ''
Trinity The Trinity (, from 'threefold') is the Christian doctrine concerning the nature of God, which defines one God existing in three, , consubstantial divine persons: God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ) and God the Holy Spirit, thr ...
'', Poison Ivy finds a dreamworld and the White Mercy entity, both created by the Black Mercy plant for
Mongul Mongul () is a supervillain appearing in comic books published by DC Comics. Writer Len Wein and artist Jim Starlin created the first version of the character, who debuted in ''DC Comics Presents'' #27 (November 1980). Jerry Ordway created the s ...
, through her connection to the Green. After capturing Batman, Wonder Woman, and Superman, she places them into the dreamworld and intends to use the solar energy emitted from Superman's body to open a gateway to bring the White Mercy—whom she considers as a daughter—over from the dreamworld. It is later revealed that Mongul deceived Poison Ivy and intended to conquer Earth using Superman as a vessel. Mongul is defeated by the White Mercy, using Batman as a temporary and willing vessel. As Poison Ivy and the White Mercy bid farewell to each other, the White Mercy uses her connection to the Green to make Poison Ivy lose her memories of the incident, so Ivy does not need to suffer any heartache. In the continuity, the "Better Together" story arc takes place after the events in '' Poison Ivy: Cycle of Life and Death'' involving Ivy's children. In ''Batgirl'', Poison Ivy helps Batgirl save an airplane and its passengers from a plant, one of Ivy's specimen, that is growing uncontrollably in the cargo bay. In the end, she reluctantly allows Batgirl to kill it. In the "Ends of the Earth" arc of ''All-Star Batman'', Poison Ivy goes into
Death Valley Death Valley is a desert valley in Eastern California, in the northern Mojave Desert, bordering the Great Basin Desert. It is thought to be the Highest temperature recorded on Earth, hottest place on Earth during summer. Death Valley's Badwat ...
where she conducts research on a barren tree to discover cures. Here, Batman asks Poison Ivy for help with a deadly bacteria, which was unleashed by
Mr. Freeze Mr. Freeze is the name of two supervillains appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by writer Dave Wood and artists Sheldon Moldoff and Bob Kane, the character initially debuted in ''Batman'' #121 (February 1959) as Mr. ...
, informing her about an infected girl and giving her samples of it. Upon examining it, Ivy realizes that the infected girl is already dead and Batman wanted to evoke her sympathy as he is actually seeking for a cure to combat the spread of the disease. She also reveals that, when she was still working at
Wayne Enterprises Wayne Enterprises, also known as Wayne Corporation, Waynecorp, Wayne Industries, Wayne Technologies and Waynetech, is a fictional company appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics, commonly in association with the superhero Batm ...
, she had presented her research wrongly as she thought Bruce Wayne wanted something to manipulate people but she was actually researching pheromones to make people feel good. Batman warns Ivy that an unknown strike force is after her, because they know Ivy is able to pull biological weapons from the tree. After Batman helps Ivy in the fight, Ivy synthesizes a selective agent that can destroy the spores without harming the hosts. In "The War of Jokes and Riddles" story arc of ''Batman'', Poison Ivy has allied herself with the
Riddler The Riddler (Edward Nigma, later Edward Nygma or Edward Nashton) is a supervillain appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. The character was created by Bill Finger and Dick Sprang, and debuted in ''Detective Comics'' #140 in O ...
in his war against the Joker. In the arc, when the Riddler was trying to convince her to join his side, she is seen stopping
Carmine Falcone Carmine Falcone is a villain appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics, portrayed as a powerful Italian-American mob boss, an List of Batman family enemies, enemy of Batman, and an acquaintance of the Wayne family. He has also been ...
's men—who are sent to kill the Riddler—by capturing them in vines. In the "Gotham Resistance" tie-in story arc for '' Dark Nights: Metal'', Poison Ivy controls a jungle-like realm within a
Gotham City Gotham City ( ), or simply Gotham, is a fictional city in the Northeastern United States that serves as the primary city appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. It is best known as the home of the superhero Batman and his List ...
warped by the dark energy emitted from the dark metal in the cards given by the Batman Who Laughs to various enemies of Batman including Poison Ivy herself. Poison Ivy captures
Harley Quinn Harley Quinn (Dr. Harleen Frances Quinzel, PhD) is a fictional American character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. She was created by Paul Dini and Bruce Timm for ''Batman: The Animated Series'' as a henchwoman for the ...
—who realizes that Poison Ivy is not herself—
Green Arrow Green Arrow is a superhero who appears in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by Mort Weisinger and designed by George Papp, he first appeared in ''More Fun Comics'' No. 73 on September 19, 1941 (cover dated November 1941), th ...
,
Nightwing Nightwing is a superhero alias used by multiple characters in American comic books published by DC Comics. The most prominent bearer is Dick Grayson, the original Robin, who adopts the Nightwing identity to assert his independence from Batman. ...
, Robin, and
Killer Croc Killer Croc (Waylon Jones) is a supervillain appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by Gerry Conway, Don Newton and Gene Colan, the character was introduced in ''Detective Comics'' #523 (February 1983). He has become on ...
as they try to solve what is going on and stop it. They escape when Poison Ivy violently reacts to her plants being harmed during an attack by several members of the
Teen Titans The Teen Titans are a superhero team appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics, frequently in eponymous monthly series. As the group's name indicates, the members are teenage superheroes, many of whom have acted as sidekicks to DC ...
and
Suicide Squad The Suicide Squad is an antihero/supervillain team appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. The first version of the Suicide Squad debuted in ''The Brave and the Bold'' #25 (September 1959) and the second and modern version, cre ...
, who all also have been twisted, as well as a Dark Robin. In the "Source Code" story arc of '' Batgirl and the Birds of Prey'', Poison Ivy infiltrates and tries to take down Terracare, a company whose fertilizers contain a secret ingredient destructive to bee populations. She comes across the Birds of Prey ( Huntress,
Black Canary Black Canary is the name of two superheroines appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. As one of the earliest female superheroes in the DC Comics universe, the character has made numerous appearances in prominent team-up titles, ...
, and
Batgirl Batgirl is the name of several fictional superheroines appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics, depicted as female counterparts and allies to the superhero Batman. The character Bette Kane, Betty Kane was introduced into publica ...
) and
Catwoman Catwoman is a character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane, she debuted as "the Cat" in ''Batman (comic book), Batman'' #1 (spring 1940). She has become one of the superhero Batman' ...
who were trying to save the
Calculator An electronic calculator is typically a portable electronic device used to perform calculations, ranging from basic arithmetic to complex mathematics. The first solid-state electronic calculator was created in the early 1960s. Pocket-si ...
's family held hostage by Terracare. Terracare had namely traced back a data breach to the Calculator who sold the information to Catwoman, so she could steal a vial of the ingredient from Terracare for Poison Ivy. She did this for Ivy, as Ivy once saved her from Boneblaster. After they stopped those responsible at Terracare, Batgirl arranges that Poison Ivy becomes the chemist in charge of the fertilizers. After this arc, Poison Ivy is occasionally seen working at Terracare (now acquired by Gordon Clean Energy) or helping the Birds of Prey against villains (such as the Daughters of Gotham or the Calculator). In the "Unnatural Disaster" storyline of ''Damage'', Poison Ivy has fallen under the influence of forces that led to a desire to destroy humanity. She partnered with
Gorilla Grodd Gorilla Grodd is a supervillain appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by John Broome and Carmine Infantino, the character first appeared in ''The Flash'' #106 (May 1959). He is an evil, super-intelligent gorilla who ...
for that purpose. They fought against Damage (Ethan Avery) who is trying to protect people from them. However, Poison Ivy eventually resists the control of these forces, as she thinks that people are worth saving and does not want to be a killer. At the end, Swamp Thing (Alec Holland) reveals to Ethan Avery that the
Green Green is the color between cyan and yellow on the visible spectrum. It is evoked by light which has a dominant wavelength of roughly 495570 nm. In subtractive color systems, used in painting and color printing, it is created by a com ...
is trying to change Poison Ivy but has not succeeded. ''Batman'' (vol. 3) #41–43 features a Poison Ivy arc titled "Everyone Loves Ivy". Fueled by her guilt over the men she thought she killed in "The War of Jokes and Riddles", Poison Ivy uses her powers to take control of everyone on earth, except Batman and Catwoman. With the help of Harley Quinn, Batman and Catwoman convince Poison Ivy to release the world from her control. At the end of arc, Poison Ivy enters a facility known as the Sanctuary for rehabilitation. In ''
Heroes in Crisis ''Heroes in Crisis'' is an American comic book limited series published by DC Comics. It is written by Tom King and illustrated by Clay Mann. ''Heroes in Crisis'' follows the "Crisis" naming convention of prior DC crossovers, but is billed as a ...
'', at the mental health institution Sanctuary, Poison Ivy is seen giving a confession in which she states that she should not be there because they are made for heroes and she is a terrorist. Earlier,
Harley Quinn Harley Quinn (Dr. Harleen Frances Quinzel, PhD) is a fictional American character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. She was created by Paul Dini and Bruce Timm for ''Batman: The Animated Series'' as a henchwoman for the ...
had told Poison Ivy to go to Sanctuary and followed her there. Ivy and several others are killed when
Wally West Wallace Rudolph "Wally" West is a superhero appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics as the original Kid Flash and the third Flash (DC Comics character), Flash. His power consists mainly of speedster (fiction), superhuman speed. T ...
loses control of the
Speed Force A speedster is a character, primarily in superhero comics, whose powers primarily relate to superhuman speed (also known as superspeed). Primary abilities shared by all speedsters include running at speeds far in excess of human capability (to var ...
, but Wally revives Ivy from the Green by using the Speed Force on a rose that was a part of Ivy given to Harley. The following ''Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy'' limited series shows Ivy still struggling to completely regenerate. With Harley's aid, Ivy is eventually restored fully, but accidentally creates an identical plant duplicate of herself during her recovery. Both innocently unaware of being a duplicate, the Ivy-double and Harley go on the run together when enemies attack, leaving behind the real Ivy feeling abandoned and betrayed. By the time the pair learn of their mistake, Ivy is murderously insane towards Harley, forcing the double to sacrifice herself to save Harley and stabilize Ivy's sanity.


''Harley Quinn'' comic

''Harley Quinn'' features Ivy as Harley's best friend and then lover. Ivy has helped Harley out on several adventures between her ecological terrorism gigs back in Harley's new home on
Coney Island Coney Island is a neighborhood and entertainment area in the southwestern section of the New York City borough of Brooklyn. The neighborhood is bounded by Brighton Beach to its east, Lower New York Bay to the south and west, and Gravesend to ...
. She helps Harley explain to the local assassins that Harley posted her own bounty while sleepwalking and that trying to kill her would just lead to their deaths and no pay day. Harley rescued her from a super villain's mind control while Ivy was secretly held prisoner and used by said villain in Arkham. She assisted in hiring the Gang of Harleys and nursing Harley back to health when Captain Strong's seaweed put her in the hospital. She and Catwoman joined Harley on a road trip when Harley's uncle died and found that while both she and Harley are immune to most toxins, that does not include some secret drink brewed up on an Indian reservation. She and Harley were invited to spend a romantic week in Bermuda on a
nudist colony A naturist resort or nudist resort is an establishment that provides accommodation (or at least camping space) and other amenities for guests in a context where they are invited to practice naturism – that is, a lifestyle of non-sexual socia ...
by Sy Borgman. When there was a dispute over some real estate Ivy helped turn it into protected swampland. Also, when
the Penguin The Penguin (Oswald Chesterfield Cobblepot) is a fictional character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics, commonly as an adversary of the superhero Batman. The character made his first appearance in ''Detective Comics'' #5 ...
attacks New York with giant killer penguins, she helps defeat him by growing a giant daisy in what their friend Eggy calls "the worst
Kaiju is a Japanese term that is commonly associated with media involving giant monsters. Its widespread contemporary use is credited to ''tokusatsu'' (special effects) director Eiji Tsuburaya and filmmaker Ishirō Honda, who popularized the ''kaiju'' ...
fight ever."
Tee Franklin Tee Franklin is a comic book writer who has worked for Image, Marvel and DC Comics. Her work includes ''Bingo Love'' (published by Image Comics), ''Harley'' ''Quinn: The Animated Series: The Eat. Bang! Kill. Tour'' and ''Harley Quinn: The Animate ...
, one of the writers of the ''Harley Quinn'' comics, has stated that she wrote Ivy as
autistic Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by differences or difficulties in social communication and interaction, a preference for predictability and routine, sensory processing di ...
, but "figured DC would be against" this being mentioned in the comics.


Collected issues


Other publications

* Poison Ivy: Cast Shadows, a 2004 DC Comics one-shot * Poison Ivy: Thorns, a 2021 DC Comics graphic novel


Activism

Ivy calls herself an "ecoterrorist of global importance" and has demonstrated philanthropic contributions to conservation efforts. The '' Gotham Girls'' episode
Pave Paradise
has her going out of her way to get Gotham's mayor to prevent bulldozing of a park because he swore he would not do it in his election campaign. In '' Gotham City Sirens'', Ivy reveals that she donated her $30 million share of
Hush Hush may refer to: Film and television Film * ''Hush'' (1921 film), starring Clara Kimball Young * ''Hush'' (1998 film), starring Gwyneth Paltrow * ''Hush!'' (film), a 2001 Japanese film directed by Ryosuke Hashiguchi *''Hush!'', a 2002 film dir ...
's money to a reforestation fund.


Powers and abilities

Initially thought to have been transformed by human experiments, Isley is later revealed to be gifted by the Green, an interplanetary force which grants her a supernatural control over plant life, enhanced strength and stamina, the power to transfer poison through touch, complete immunity to all toxins and poisons, and the ability to project mind-controlling
pheromone A pheromone () is a secreted or excreted chemical factor that triggers a social response in members of the same species. Pheromones are chemicals capable of acting like hormones outside the body of the secreting individual, to affect the behavio ...
s.''Harley Quinn'' #13. DC Comics. With the latter power at its full potential, she proves capable of controlling every person on Earth, including other super-powered beings. If her mind-control spores are laced with Kryptonite, Ivy can affect and control Superman as well. She has the ability to control and mutate all forms of plant life on a molecular level, making it respond to her will and command. In volume three of ''Batman'', she causes giant plant roots to become uprooted at a moment's notice, and directs them to entangle her enemies.''Batman'' (vol. 3) #27. DC Comics. While in Arkham Asylum, she manipulates and animates plants, using roots to form supports for a tunnel she and another inmate named
Magpie Magpies are birds of various species of the family Corvidae. Like other members of their family, they are widely considered to be intelligent creatures. The Eurasian magpie, for instance, is thought to rank among the world's most intelligent c ...
dig to escape, and also spawning glowing fungi to entertain Magpie.''Arkham Asylum: Living Hell'' Plant vines are also commonly seen extending over her limbs and neck, creating part of her overall appearance.''Poison Ivy: Cycle of Life and Death'' #2. DC Comics. She controlled an entire tree to come down on Clayface, ensnaring him in its branches, and once brought a whole skyscraper down with giant vines. Some versions of the character depict her as more plant than human, such as breathing
carbon dioxide Carbon dioxide is a chemical compound with the chemical formula . It is made up of molecules that each have one carbon atom covalent bond, covalently double bonded to two oxygen atoms. It is found in a gas state at room temperature and at norma ...
and undergoing photosynthesis. Her special pheromones let her mesmerize and manipulate people around her, men in particular, although strong-minded people like Batman are usually capable of resisting. She can also create the most potent floral toxins in Gotham City, ranging from truth serums to love potions. Often these toxins are secreted from her lips and administered in her preferred way, a poisonous kiss. Ironically her immunity to poisons has resulted in her becoming sterile and unable to give birth. Poison Ivy is identified by the
Swamp Thing Swamp Thing is a superhero and antihero appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by writer Len Wein and artist Bernie Wrightson, the Swamp Thing has had several different incarnations throughout his publication. The ch ...
as a being with an elemental mystical component, whom he calls the "May Queen". Ivy is able to communicate over great distances with this talent, as she manifests in a vase of roses in
Zatanna Zatanna Zatara (), known mononymously as Zatanna, is a superhero appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. The character was created by Gardner Fox and Murphy Anderson, and first appeared in ''Hawkman (comic book), Hawkman'' #4 (N ...
's dressing room to talk to the magician. Since her death and rebirth, her control over plants increased to the point she can grow giant animated plants from seedlings in seconds, hear through plants, and channel her consciousness into plant material from long distances. The character carries a certain number of live vines: coupled with her natural ability to commune with plant life, they act as weaponry, or defensive/grabbing appendages. Their supply is, however, limited. Beyond her metahuman traits, Ivy is shown to be exceptionally physically fit both due to gymnastics and her enhanced health; being similar to Harley Quinn in skill as well as showing enough hand-to-hand combat prowess to challenge Batman without relying solely on her powers. Pamela Isley is an expert in botany, toxicology and genetics. Though mentally unstable, she has a genius level of intelligence, particularly when it comes to anything related to plants, and she may be the world's foremost botanist. Her specialization in these fields had earned her a career as a scientist and she initially used her knowledge for perfumes, makeup and medicine. Additionally, her expertise in biochemistry has enabled her to develop mutant plants and to create and give life to plants that have long been thought to be extinct. In ''Batman" The Animated Series'', a captive Batman calls her a genius combined with a fanatic – a description she does not dispute. She is famous for being able to seduce men and women alike, often using her pheromones to do so, but also without: her beauty is a resource she can use. Pamela Isley has always been a beautiful woman, but she never used her looks or talents for personal gain until she became Poison Ivy.


Romantic relationships


Batman

Ivy and Batman have worked together in achieving common goals and are frequently depicted as having a romantic relationship. Batman's attraction to Ivy is present in some way in several mediums in which the characters appear. There has always been a sexual tension between the two, most notably in their canonical earlier encounters.''Batman: Shadow of the Bat'' Annual #3 (1995). DC Comics. In her first appearance, Ivy is established as having an attraction to Batman, and tries to convince Batman to join her side and creates love potions that ensnare him. In the 1997 story ''Batman: Poison Ivy'', Christopher DeJardin tries to kill Ivy, and Batman takes the bullet. Batman, who was wearing body armor, knocks him out. Ivy considers his saving her from death as proof he loves her, though he responds that she does not know the meaning of the word. Her attraction is confirmed in ''Batman: The Widening Gyre, Widening Gyre''. At first, Ivy's infatuation with Batman was one-sided; later stories presented the attraction as more mutual, but hindered by reluctance on Batman's part. She later kisses Bruce during a robbery, poisoning him. But when she subsequently kisses a dying Batman, she unknowingly cures her intended victim and establishes a budding romantic tension between them. During the "No Man's Land" arc, Batman comes to her rescue while she is held captive by Clayface, with Ivy remarking that she knew he would. In ''Batman: Pavane'' (1989), while being interviewed as a potential candidate for the Suicide Squad, Pamela reveals to Inspector Stuart on how she became Poison Ivy. When she heard about Batman, she instantly fell in love with him—believing him to be the “perfect man”; going so far as to make a love shrine of him. With her goal set, she moved to Gotham, created a costume and renamed herself “Poison Ivy”; she then began committing crimes for the purpose of getting his attention in the hopes of them becoming the #1 crime couple. Unfortunately for Pamela, it did not work out the way she wanted it to, and so she was apprehended and sent to Arkham Asylum. In ''Batman: Hothouse'' (1992), Batman gains an obsession with Isley. Later, she kisses him. Now completely deranged, Ivy thinks herself "Titania (A Midsummer Night's Dream), Titania, Queen of the May", and Batman her Oberon—as Batman struggles with the hallucinations induced by the kiss, she pins him down and prepares to unmask him. With his last burst of strength, Batman kicks the greenhouse's sprinklers on, washing away Ivy's pheromones. The sobered Batman chases an increasingly desperate Ivy onto the greenhouse's catwalks, where he barely manages to save Ivy from falling to her death. Subsequently, Ivy is returned to Arkham Asylum, her twisted love for Batman stronger than ever. In one of the annuals of ''Batman: Shadow of the Bat'', a mutual attraction between Poison Ivy and the Batman is obvious: Ivy considers Batman "the perfect man", and in a conversation with his butler, Alfred Pennyworth, he admits to finding her attractive and more appealing than Catwoman. She subsequently targets Bruce Wayne as one of those she blames for recent environmental 'crimes', giving him her poisoned kiss, but when she kisses Batman later and brags about how a second kiss is the antidote, Batman thus creates the impression that he is immune to her poisons. In the ''Batman Chronicles'' (1995) story ''Passion's Fruit'' (1997), Ivy is depicted as feeling lonely and deeply missing Batman while at Arkham Asylum. She hatches a scheme to unleash some of her plant creations to cause havoc in Gotham, multiplying at contact with water, until Batman finally pays her a visit at the asylum. In exchange for the visit and a kiss, she morphs her creations into harmless strawberry plants. At the end of the story she is seen to be in improved spirits. In ''Poison Ivy: Cast Shadows, Batman/Poison Ivy: Cast Shadows'' (2004), Batman and Ivy work together to find a killer carrying out a series of Ivy-like murders at Arkham Asylum, Arkham. His butler, Alfred Pennyworth, notes that Batman has been poisoned by the flowers. Batman tells Alfred he must kiss Ivy for the cure, and that if he fails Alfred must kill him. Ivy and Batman confront each other, where Batman warns Ivy that he'll have to knock her out to kiss her to make sure that she does not kill him when he passes out after being cured. Ivy insists for him to trust her, despite Batman's doubts. Batman at first decides to punch her, hesitates, then they embrace and kiss passionately instead. Upon being cured, he falls, but saves himself, and saves Ivy as Gotham Tower collapses when — assuming Batman dead — Ivy tries to kill herself, once more insinuating that it is more than just lust she feels for him. Ivy and Batman share a moment together speaking, watching her plant creations create light, and Batman compliments her on her talent. Batman takes Ivy back to Arkham Asylum, so that Ivy can finish her rehabilitation. Discouraged, Ivy complains to Batman about the lack of light in her cell, and Batman responds that there is nothing he can do about it, before departing. Transferred to a new cell the next morning, Ivy is stunned when she discovers that her room has been moved to a special cell where she can be in the sunlight, and has been filled with flowers as a gift. Upon being told some "anonymous benefactor" wanted to make sure her time is not as daunting as it might have been, a touched Ivy smiles and thanks Batman. In ''Detective Comics'' (vol. 2) #14 (January 2013), Ivy kisses Batman, trying to gain control over him via her toxins, and saying, “You're the only one for me Batman, you know that right? Nobody else even comes close. Not anybody.⁣⁣⁣” Rather than using an antidote, he rigs his visor to show him certain set of visual stimuli that will effectively erase his short-term memory, thereby erasing any commands she gives him as well. Aware of his resistance, she tries to appeal to his sense of morality. In ''Gothtopia'', Batman comes to her rescue when he realizes she was telling him the truth, even though he put her in Arkham. First she punches him for not believing her claims, and then she kisses him for coming to her rescue, poisoning him with her mind control toxin. Resisting it, he warns that they would be best off helping each other for now. Thanks to her own resistance and the kiss he received, both Batman and Ivy become immune to Scarecrow's gas effect. In the 2021 Fear State Comic Series, Batman: 113 features an exploration into Batman's mind and shows Poison Ivy kissing him, alongside both
Catwoman Catwoman is a character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane, she debuted as "the Cat" in ''Batman (comic book), Batman'' #1 (spring 1940). She has become one of the superhero Batman' ...
and Talia al Ghul seemingly confirming towards a past relationship between the two characters in the current canon universe. In the thirteenth issue of the Poison Ivy Poison Ivy (2022 comic book), Solo Series, Bruce refers to their past romantic relationship when talking to Pamela once she returns to Gotham. The relationship even briefly deviated from the Batman/Ivy relationship into a Bruce/Pamela one when, in the comic series ''Batman: Gotham Knights'', he helps her return to normal. In ''Batman: The Long Halloween (film), Batman: The Long Halloween'', Bruce and Ivy engage in a sexually implied relationship during the three month time period Bruce was under her mind control as instructed by mob boss
Carmine Falcone Carmine Falcone is a villain appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics, portrayed as a powerful Italian-American mob boss, an List of Batman family enemies, enemy of Batman, and an acquaintance of the Wayne family. He has also been ...
.


Harley Quinn

Prior to the The New 52, New 52 reboot, Ivy is shown as teamed up on occasion with fellow villain
Harley Quinn Harley Quinn (Dr. Harleen Frances Quinzel, PhD) is a fictional American character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. She was created by Paul Dini and Bruce Timm for ''Batman: The Animated Series'' as a henchwoman for the ...
with Harley being her best friend and recurring ally. They are sometimes shown as romantically involved. Unlike most villain team-ups, their partnership is based on genuine friendship and mutual respect. Ivy sincerely wants to save Harley from her unhealthy
abusive Abuse is the act of improper usage or treatment of a person or thing, often to unfairly or improperly gain benefit. Abuse can come in many forms, such as: physical or verbal maltreatment, injury, assault, violation, rape, unjust practices, ...
relationship with the Joker. Accordingly, Poison Ivy despises the Joker, and the two exchange vicious banter at every opportunity. In the final storyline of the '' Gotham City Sirens'' series, Harley suggests that Ivy may be in love with her, an accusation that stuns her. The following issue has Poison Ivy acknowledge that she may indeed love Harley, but the details of her love are never specified, and the series ended with the New 52 reboot before their relationship could be addressed. In June 2015, Poison Ivy was revealed to be romantically involved with Harley Quinn by ''Harley Quinn'' series writers Jimmy Palmiotti and Amanda Conner, stating that she is in a romantic relationship with Harley "without the jealousy of monogamy". In ''Harley Quinn'' (vol. 1) #8, Harley went on a vacation with Ivy to a nudist colony in which she tried to convince Ivy to move in with her, but while Ivy admitted that she loves Harley more than any other person on Earth and would love to spend as much time with her as possible, she is currently more dedicated to saving the environment. Harley was disappointed and very sad, but accepted it and the two parted with promises to meet again. In ''Injustice 2'' #70, which takes place in an alternate universe, Poison Ivy states that she was married to Harley Quinn.


Teams

Ivy teamed up on occasion with fellow villain,
Harley Quinn Harley Quinn (Dr. Harleen Frances Quinzel, PhD) is a fictional American character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. She was created by Paul Dini and Bruce Timm for ''Batman: The Animated Series'' as a henchwoman for the ...
with Harley being her close friend and recurring ally. The partnership between Harley and Ivy has also at times included Catwoman, such as in episodes and issues of the '' Gotham Girls'' webtoon and comic book series. In the mainstream DC Universe, the three formed an alliance in the pages of '' Gotham City Sirens''. Poison Ivy was invited to join the
Birds of Prey Birds of prey or predatory birds, also known as (although not the same as) raptors, are hypercarnivorous bird species that actively predation, hunt and feed on other vertebrates (mainly mammals, reptiles and smaller birds). In addition to speed ...
by
Black Canary Black Canary is the name of two superheroines appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. As one of the earliest female superheroes in the DC Comics universe, the character has made numerous appearances in prominent team-up titles, ...
in
The New 52 The New 52 was the 2011 revamp and relaunch by DC Comics of its entire Line (comics), line of ongoing monthly superhero American comic books, comic books. Following the conclusion of the "Flashpoint (comics), Flashpoint" Fictional crossover, cros ...
continuity reboot (continuity), reboot.
Katana A is a Japanese sword characterized by a curved, single-edged blade with a circular or squared guard and long grip to accommodate two hands. Developed later than the ''tachi'', it was used by samurai in feudal Japan and worn with the edge fa ...
and Starling reject the idea and even attack Ivy, but after a brief scuffle, the women begin working together as a team. She remained with the team for a time, but eventually betrayed them, shortly before the team split-up. When the Birds were reformed under the leadership of Batgirl, Poison Ivy was not invited back. Poison Ivy joins Two-Face (comics), Two-Face's gang for a short period of time during ''Batman: Dark Victory'', when she murders crime boss Lucia Viti on Two-Face's orders. She is notably the only member of the gang to be upset by Two-Face's casual murder of fellow gang member Solomon Grundy (character), Solomon Grundy, a plant-based entity. The gang is broken up after Two-Face's apparent death at the hands of the Joker. Poison Ivy is a member of the original Injustice Gang of the World, which fights the Justice League on several occasions.''Justice League of America'' #111, #143, #158. DC Comics. She joins the Secret Society of Super Villains for a mission against the Justice League.''The Secret Society of Super-Villains #10; Special'' She later joins Alexander Luthor Jr.'s incarnation of the Society.''Superman/Batman'' #19 (May 2005). DC Comics. She is coerced into being a member of the
Suicide Squad The Suicide Squad is an antihero/supervillain team appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. The first version of the Suicide Squad debuted in ''The Brave and the Bold'' #25 (September 1959) and the second and modern version, cre ...
. During this time, she uses her abilities to enslave Count Vertigo.''Suicide Squad'' #33–37, #39, #41, #43, #46–47, #58–59, #64–66. DC Comics.


Reception

IGN's list of the Top 100 Comic Book Villains of All Time ranked Poison Ivy as #64. She was ranked 21st in ''Comics Buyer's Guide''s "100 Sexiest Women in Comics" list.


Other versions

* An alternate universe variant of Poison Ivy appears in ''JLA: Created Equal''. This version was killed after traveling through the Green in an attempt to learn what caused the Fall and killed almost every male on Earth. * An alternate universe variant of Poison Ivy appears in ''Batman & Dracula trilogy, Batman: Crimson Mist'' as one of several villains killed by a vampiric Batman. * An alternate universe variant of Poison Ivy appears in ''Batman/Demon: A Tragedy''. This version is a healer who is later killed by Etrigan the Demon. * An alternate universe variant of Poison Ivy appears in ''Flashpoint (comics), Flashpoint''. This version is an associate of Superman and head of the Oasis refuge. * Poison Ivy appears in ''Batman/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.'' * An alternate universe variant of Poison Ivy appears in ''Batman: White Knight''. * An alternate universe variant of Poison Ivy appears in ''Harley Quinn: Breaking Glass''. This version is Ivy Du-Barry, an Afro-Asian student of Gotham High and member of its film club.


In other media


Television


Live-action

* Poison Ivy appears in '' Gotham'', portrayed by
Clare Foley Clare Foley is an American actress. She is known for playing the roles of Ruby Taylor in '' Do No Harm'', Ashley in '' Sinister'', a young version of Piper in ''Orange Is the New Black ''Orange Is the New Black'' (sometimes abbreviated to ''O ...
in the first two seasons, Maggie Geha in the third season and first half of the fourth season, and Peyton List from then into the fifth season. This version is Ivy Pepper, a street kid who taught herself to use plants and herbs to create mind-altering chemicals, whose father Mario was framed for the deaths of Thomas Wayne, Thomas and Martha Wayne. During the third season, an encounter with Fish Mooney's enforcer Marv causes Ivy to physically age up into her twenties. In the fourth season, Ivy gains a new appearance with poisonous nails after stealing mystical chemicals from an apothecary shop. * Two incarnations of Poison Ivy, List of Batwoman characters#Poison Ivy, Pamela Isley and Mary Hamilton (Arrowverse), Mary Hamilton / Poison Ivy II / "Poison Mary", appear in ''
Batwoman Batwoman is a name of several superheroes appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics, depicted as female counterparts and allies of Batman similarly to Batgirl. The original version of the character, Kathy Kane (eventually given t ...
'', portrayed by
Bridget Regan Bridget Catherine Regan ( ; born February 3, 1982) is an American actress best known for her lead roles as Kahlan Amnell in the ABC adventure romance series ''Legend of the Seeker'' (2008–10) and Sasha Cooper in the last three seasons of the ...
and Nicole Kang respectively. This version of Isley is a scientist and ex-lover of Renee Montoya who was put into suspended animation by her. After one of Isley's vines is stolen and thrown into the Gotham River, it infects Hamilton with Isley's essence. Subsequently, Montoya revives Isley, who retakes her essence from Hamilton and tries to renew her plans, only to be foiled by Ryan Wilder, Batwoman.


Animation

* List_of_The_Batman_characters#Poison_Ivy, Pamela Isley / Poison Ivy appears in ''The Batman (TV series), The Batman'' (2004), voiced by Piera Coppola. A green check mark indicates that a role has been confirmed using a screenshot (or collage of screenshots) of a title's list of voice actors and their respective characters found in its credits or other reliable sources of information. This version is a teenage environmentalism, environmental activist and delinquent who gained her abilities from being doused in the plant-based mutagen "chlorogene". Due to her younger age, the seductive side of her personality was heavily toned down. * Poison Ivy appears in ''Batman: The Brave and the Bold'', voiced by Jennifer Hale in the episode "Chill of the Night!" and Vanessa Marshall in "The Mask of Matches Malone!". This version is served by "Flower Children". * Poison Ivy appears in the ''Young Justice (TV series), Young Justice'' episode "Revelation", voiced by Alyssa Milano. This version is a member of the Injustice League. * Poison Ivy appears in the ''DC Nation Shorts, Super Best Friends Forever'' short "Time Waits for No Girl". * Poison Ivy appears in ''Robot Chicken DC Comics Special 2: Villains in Paradise'', voiced by Clare Grant. This version is a member of the Legion of Doom. * Poison Ivy makes primarily non-speaking cameo appearances in ''Teen Titans Go!'', voiced by Courtenay Taylor in the episode "Jam". * Poison Ivy appears in ''DC Super Friends'', voiced by Fryda Wolff. * Poison Ivy appears in ''DC Super Hero Girls'' (2015) and its tie-in films, voiced by
Tara Strong Tara Lyn Strong (; born February 12, 1973) is a Canadian and American actress. She is known for her voice work in animation, websites, and video games. Strong's voice roles include animated series such as '' The Powerpuff Girls'', '' The Fair ...
. This version is a student at Super Hero High. * Poison Ivy appears in ''Justice League Action'', voiced by Natasha Leggero. * Poison Ivy appears in ''Harley Quinn (TV series), Harley Quinn'', voiced by
Lake Bell Lake Siegel Bell (born March 24, 1979) is an American actress, screenwriter, and director. She has appeared in various television series, including '' Boston Legal'' (2004–2006), ''Surface'' (2005–2006), '' How to Make It in America'' (2010 ...
. This version is more sarcastic, cynical, modest, and introverted than other incarnations, with the typically sultry aspects of her character having been toned down. Additionally, she is Harley Quinn's best friend, later girlfriend, who supports her in separating from the Joker and becoming an independent supervillain. In flashbacks, she pursued an affair with her college professor Jason Woodrue, who attempted to kill her after failing to steal a plant serum she developed. Nonetheless, she used it to save herself, turning into Poison Ivy in the process. ** Ivy appears in the ''Kite Man: Hell Yeah!'' episode "Pilot, Hell Yeah!", voiced again by Bell. * Poison Ivy appears in ''DC Super Hero Girls (TV series), DC Super Hero Girls'' (2019), voiced by Cristina Milizia. This version is a lonely misanthrope and member of the Super Villain Girls who refuses to eat vegetables and displays a voracious craving for meat. * Poison Ivy appears in ''Batwheels'', voiced by Kailey Snider.


=DC Animated Universe

= Poison Ivy appears in media set in the DC Animated Universe (DCAU), voiced by
Diane Pershing Diane Pershing is an American voice actress, film critic, and novelist. She began her singing career as a back-up singer for Johnny Mathis and went on to appear in the show group, The Establishment, on tour and on TV. She also voiced Poison Ivy ...
. * First appearing in ''Batman: The Animated Series'' (1992), her metahuman characteristics are initially downplayed, with her immunity to toxins that also renders her Infertility, infertile being the only ability displayed. As such, she does not directly control plants, instead breeding special plants and using her chemistry knowledge and a wrist-mounted crossbow in her crimes. * In ''The New Batman Adventures'', Ivy was aesthetically revamped to look more plant-like, sporting light green skin and a dark green outfit that exposes her legs. Additionally, she is more humorous and seductive in personality, coinciding with her friendly relationship with
Harley Quinn Harley Quinn (Dr. Harleen Frances Quinzel, PhD) is a fictional American character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. She was created by Paul Dini and Bruce Timm for ''Batman: The Animated Series'' as a henchwoman for the ...
, and her fanatical plant-based mindset is greatly reduced. * While Ivy does not appear in ''Batman Beyond'', the episode "Out of the Past" includes a portrayal of her in the play ''The Legend of Batman''. When asked about Ivy's fate, series creator Paul Dini stated that she moved to South America and settled in the Amazon rainforest, allowing her physical body to merge with and become one with the environment. * Ivy appears in the ''Static Shock'' episode "Hard As Nails". * An alternate universe variant of Ivy makes a non-speaking cameo appearance in the ''Justice League (TV series), Justice League'' two-part episode "A Better World". This version was lobotomized by the Justice Lords and became a gardener at Arkham Asylum. Series co-developer Bruce Timm stated that he rejected further appearances for the character in favor of focusing on new characters and storylines while bringing back a minimal number of villains from previous series.


Film


Live-action

* Poison Ivy appears in '' Batman & Robin'' (1997), portrayed by
Uma Thurman Uma Karuna Thurman (born April 29, 1970) is an American actress. She has performed in a variety of films, from romantic comedies and dramas to science fiction and action films. Following her appearances on the December 1985 and May 1986 cover ...
. This version is a
Wayne Enterprises Wayne Enterprises, also known as Wayne Corporation, Waynecorp, Wayne Industries, Wayne Technologies and Waynetech, is a fictional company appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics, commonly in association with the superhero Batm ...
botanist who experiments with the Venom serum and cross-breeding plants with animal DNA so they can fight back and protect themselves. Her colleague Floronic Man, Jason Woodrue steals her work to create
Bane Bane may refer to: Fictional characters * Bane (DC Comics), an adversary of Batman * Bane (''Harry Potter''), a centaur in the ''Harry Potter'' series * Bane (''The Matrix''), a character in the ''Matrix'' film trilogy * Bane the Druid, a Gua ...
and tries to kill her with various toxins, but inadvertently transforms her into Poison Ivy. After killing Woodrue, Ivy joins forces with Bane and
Mr. Freeze Mr. Freeze is the name of two supervillains appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by writer Dave Wood and artists Sheldon Moldoff and Bob Kane, the character initially debuted in ''Batman'' #121 (February 1959) as Mr. ...
to destroy Gotham, during which she attempts to kill Nora Fries. However, Bruce Wayne (1989 film series character), Batman, Dick Grayson, Robin, and Batgirl save Nora and thwart the villains, with Ivy and Freeze becoming cellmates at
Arkham Asylum Arkham Asylum () is a fictional psychiatric hospital appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics, commonly in stories featuring Batman. It first appeared in ''Batman'' #258 (October 1974), written by Dennis O'Neil with art by Irv N ...
. Thurman's portrayal of Poison Ivy was praised by critics and fans. * ''Birds of Prey (2020 film), Birds of Prey'' director Cathy Yan wanted to make a sequel that could have explored the relationship between Harley Quinn (DC Extended Universe), Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy, with the latter meant to appear in '' Gotham City Sirens'', until the film was put on hold.


Animation

* Poison Ivy appears in ''Lego Batman 2: DC Super Heroes'', voiced by Laura Bailey. * The ''Batman: Arkham'' incarnation of Poison Ivy makes a non-speaking cameo appearance in ''Batman: Assault on Arkham''. * Poison Ivy appears in ''Lego DC Comics Super Heroes: Justice League: Gotham City Breakout'', voiced again by Vanessa Marshall. * Poison Ivy appears in ''The Lego Batman Movie'', voiced by Riki Lindhome. * Poison Ivy appears in ''Batman and Harley Quinn'', voiced by Paget Brewster. * Poison Ivy appears in ''Scooby-Doo! & Batman: The Brave and the Bold'', voiced again by Tara Strong. * A Victorian era-inspired alternate universe variant of Poison Ivy appears in ''Batman: Gotham by Gaslight'', voiced by Kari Wuhrer. This version is an exotic dancer and opium addict who was looked after by Leslie Thompkins, Sister Leslie until she is murdered by James Gordon (character), Jack the Ripper. * Poison Ivy appears in ''Lego DC Comics Super Heroes: The Flash'', voiced again by Vanessa Marshall. * A Feudal Japan-inspired incarnation of Poison Ivy appears in ''Batman Ninja'', voiced by Atsuko Tanaka (voice actress), Atsuko Tanaka in the Japanese version and again by Tara Strong in the English dub. * Poison Ivy makes a non-speaking cameo appearance in ''Justice League vs. the Fatal Five''. * Poison Ivy appears in ''Batman vs. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles'', voiced again by Tara Strong. * Poison Ivy appears in ''Batman: Hush (film), Batman: Hush'', voiced by Peyton List. * Poison Ivy appears in ''Batman: The Long Halloween (film), Batman: The Long Halloween'', voiced by Katee Sackhoff. This version sports a modernized design. * Poison Ivy makes a non-speaking cameo appearance in ''Injustice (2021 film), Injustice''. * An alternate reality incarnation of Poison Ivy appears in ''Batman: The Doom That Came to Gotham (film), Batman: The Doom That Came to Gotham'', voiced by Gideon Adlon. This version is a cultist who is transformed into a plant-like demon by Cthulhu's essence and is later killed in an explosion while fighting Green Arrow, Oliver Queen. * Poison Ivy appears in ''Merry Little Batman'', voiced by Therese McLaughlin. * Poison Ivy appears in ''Justice League: Crisis on Infinite Earths'', voiced again by Katee Sackhoff.


Video games

* Poison Ivy appears as a boss in ''Batman: The Animated Series (video game), Batman: The Animated Series'' (1993). * Poison Ivy appears as a boss in ''The Adventures of Batman & Robin (video game), The Adventures of Batman & Robin''. * Poison Ivy appears as a boss in ''Batman: Chaos in Gotham''. * Poison Ivy appears as a boss in ''Batman & Robin (video game), Batman & Robin'' (1998). * Poison Ivy appears as a boss in ''Batman: Vengeance'', voiced again by Diane Pershing. * Poison Ivy appears as a boss in ''Batman: Dark Tomorrow'', voiced by Wendy Jones. * Poison Ivy makes a cameo appearance in ''Batman: Rise of Sin Tzu''. * A vehicle inspired by Poison Ivy appears in ''Batman: Gotham City Racer''. * Poison Ivy appears in ''DC Universe Online'', voiced by Cyndi Williams. This version is a member of the Secret Society of Super Villains, Secret Society. * Poison Ivy, based on the New 52 incarnation, appears in ''Minecraft'' via the "Batman" DLC. * Poison Ivy appears as a playable character in ''Infinite Crisis (video game), Infinite Crisis'', voiced by
Tasia Valenza Tasia Valenza is an American actress. She is most known for being the voice of Poison Ivy in the '' Arkham series'' from 2009 to 2015 as well as in a number of other video games, such as Sniper Wolf in '' Metal Gear Solid'' and her various roles ...
. * Poison Ivy appears as a character summon in ''Scribblenauts Unmasked: A DC Comics Adventure''. * Poison Ivy appears as a support card in the mobile version of ''Injustice: Gods Among Us''. * Poison Ivy appears as a playable character in ''Injustice 2'', voiced again by Tasia Valenza. This version is a member of
Gorilla Grodd Gorilla Grodd is a supervillain appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by John Broome and Carmine Infantino, the character first appeared in ''The Flash'' #106 (May 1959). He is an evil, super-intelligent gorilla who ...
's Society. * Poison Ivy appears as a cosmetic outfit in ''Fortnite Battle Royale, Fortnite''. * Poison Ivy appears in ''DC Super Hero Girls: Teen Power'', voiced again by Christina Milizia. * Poison Ivy appears in ''Justice League: Cosmic Chaos'', voiced again by Tasia Valenza.


''Lego DC'' series

* Poison Ivy appears as a playable character and boss in ''Lego Batman: The Videogame'', voiced by Vanessa Marshall. * Poison Ivy appears as a playable character in ''Lego Batman 3: Beyond Gotham'', voiced by
Tara Strong Tara Lyn Strong (; born February 12, 1973) is a Canadian and American actress. She is known for her voice work in animation, websites, and video games. Strong's voice roles include animated series such as '' The Powerpuff Girls'', '' The Fair ...
. * Poison Ivy appears as a boss in ''Lego Dimensions'', voiced by Tasia Valenza. She is available via ''The Lego Batman Movie'' DLC pack. * Poison Ivy appears as a playable character and boss in ''Lego DC Super-Villains'', voiced by Tasia Valenza.


''Batman: Arkham''

Poison Ivy appears in the ''Batman: Arkham'' series, voiced primarily by Tasia Valenza. * First appearing as a boss in ''Batman: Arkham Asylum'', she sports plant-based growths on her body and is empowered by the Joker with the Titan formula. * In ''Batman: Arkham City'' she has taken up residence in an abandoned hotel within the eponymous city-prison, relying on brainwashed criminals and TYGER guards for protection. * In ''Batman: Arkham City Lockdown'', she is voiced by Amy Carle. * In ''Batman: Arkham Knight'', Scarecrow attempts to recruit her into an alliance formed between himself and the Jason Todd, Arkham Knight, among others, to kill Batman. After she refuses the offer, the Arkham Knight's militia imprison her until she is rescued by Batman. She then reluctantly forms an alliance with him to stop Scarecrow due to the latter spreading his fear toxin throughout Gotham, killing her plants. Ivy eventually sacrifices herself to save Gotham from the toxin. * A clone of Poison Ivy created by Lex Luthor, simply called Ivy, appears in ''Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League'', voiced by Darcy Rose Byrnes. Following her creation, she escapes LexCorp amidst Brainiac (character), Brainiac's invasion of Metropolis (comics), Metropolis and is recruited into the
Suicide Squad The Suicide Squad is an antihero/supervillain team appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. The first version of the Suicide Squad debuted in ''The Brave and the Bold'' #25 (September 1959) and the second and modern version, cre ...
to help them kill the Justice League.


Miscellaneous

* The DCAU incarnation of Poison Ivy appears in '' Gotham Girls'', voiced again by
Diane Pershing Diane Pershing is an American voice actress, film critic, and novelist. She began her singing career as a back-up singer for Johnny Mathis and went on to appear in the show group, The Establishment, on tour and on TV. She also voiced Poison Ivy ...
. * Poison Ivy appears in ''Holy Musical B@man!'', portrayed by Jaime Lyn Beatty. * Poison Ivy appears in the DC Icons novel ''Catwoman: Soulstealer''.


See also

* List of Batman family enemies


References


Further reading

*Les Daniels, Daniels, Les. ''Batman: The Complete History''. Chronicle Books, 1999. *Beatty, Scott, ''et al.'', ''The Batman Handbook: The Ultimate Training Manual''. Quirk Books, 2005. *Baney, Jennifer. ''Poison Ivy's green screen debut: A rhetorical criticism on erasing identity on screen.'' University of the Pacific, Thesis
Poison Ivy's green screen debut: A rhetorical criticism on erasing identity on screen
*Checkett, John-David. ''The Green Goddess Returns: Batman's Poison Ivy as a Symbol of emergent Ecofeminist Consciousnes.'' Florida Atlantic University, Thesis
Green Goddess returns: Batman's Poison Ivy as a symbol of emerging ecofeminist consciousness , fau.digital.flvc.org
{{Use mdy dates, date=May 2014 Poison Ivy (character), Batman characters Characters created by Robert Kanigher Characters created by Sheldon Moldoff Comics characters introduced in 1966 Supervillains with their own comic book titles DC Comics characters with accelerated healing DC Comics female superheroes DC Comics female supervillains DC Comics film characters DC Comics hybrids DC Comics LGBTQ superheroes DC Comics LGBTQ supervillains DC Comics metahumans DC Comics plant characters DC Comics scientists DC Comics orphans Fictional biochemists Fictional bisexual women Fictional botanists Fictional characters from Seattle Fictional characters with plant abilities Fictional eco-terrorists Fictional female scientists Fictional female mass murderers Fictional geneticists Fictional hypnotists Fictional mad scientists Fictional thieves Fictional toxicologists