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Bolivar Naturally

Pokeweed

Pokeweed

Pokeweed
Pokeweed

Susan Billetdeaux

Phytolacca americana

Alternate Names: Pokeberry, Poke

Family: (Phytolaccaceae) Pokeweed

Habitat: Moist woodlands, roadsides.

Height: 4-10 feet

Bloom Period: July - October

Description: Perennial. Pokeweed grows from a thick taproot. The small white flowers are followed by dark purple berries. Plants quickly grow to be quite tall. Broad green leaves and bright red stalks make the plant easy to identify. Plants happily sprawl on surrounding plants.

Propagation Tips: Readily self seeds.

Caution: Almost all parts of pokeweed are poisonous when raw and can be fatal to humans. Although the fresh young shoots and berries are used in recipes, they must be carefully prepared.

The Wildlife Connection: The berries are relished by many species of birds. This plant has a very long bloom season and is an important food source.

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