American Pokeweed

Scientific Name: Phytolacca americana

Plant Family: Phytolaccaceae

Native Region: Eastern North America, now naturalized in Europe and parts of Asia

American Pokeweed

Brief Description

A large, herbaceous perennial known for its bright pinkish-red stems, large green leaves, and hanging clusters of green berries that turn deep purple-black when ripe.

Care Instructions

This is often considered a weed so it needs little care. It thrives in full sun but tolerates partial shade. It prefers moist, fertile soil and requires regular water during droughts but is generally very hardy and aggressive.

Medicinal Value

We do not currently provide medicinal value for plant identifications.

Sunlight

Full sun to partial shade (4-8 hours of sunlight per day)

Watering

Medium watering needs; prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate moderate drought once established.

Soil

Rich, moist, loamy soils are preferred, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5.

Hardiness Zone

4 - 9

Growth Habit

Robust herbaceous perennial; grows 6 to 10 feet tall with a wide, shrub-like spread; fast-growing.

Bloom Season

Early summer to early fall; small white to greenish flowers on long racemes.

Toxicity

Highly toxic to humans, dogs, cats, and livestock. All parts (especially roots and mature berries) contain phytolaccatoxin. Can cause severe vomiting, tremors, and even death if ingested.

Propagation

Propagates easily by seed which can be dispersed by birds. Can also be divided by its large taproot in early spring.

Common Pests & Issues

Generally resistant to pests and diseases, though it can host mosaic viruses and be attacked by leaf miners.

Similar Species

Elderberry (which has woody stems and different leaf structures) and Inkberry (an evergreen shrub with different growth habits).

Interesting Facts

Native American tribes and early settlers used the berries to make red ink. Despite its toxicity, young 'poke sallet' greens are eaten in many Southern US regions after being boiled multiple times in fresh water to remove toxins.

Created At: 2026-06-06T21:05:31.470119