American Pokeweed
Phytolacca americana
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.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade (4-8 hours of sunlight per day)
- Water
- Medium watering needs; prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate moderate drought once established.
- Growth
- Robust herbaceous perennial; grows 6 to 10 feet tall with a wide, shrub-like spread; fast-growing.
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.
Growing details
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.
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.