Phytolacca americana

Phytolacca americana, also known as pokeweed, is a herbaceous perennial shrub native to the southeastern region of the U.S.  Large, lanceolate leaves of green grow in an alternate pattern along the reddish-purple stems of the bushy pokeweed plant.  Reportedly, the leaves give off a fetid odor when bruised, so ensure the plants are planted away from walking paths.  Elongated racemes covered in green or white petalless blooms adorn the pokeweed plant during the late summer and early fall months.  Following the peculiar blooms, green, grape-like berries are produced, turning a deep purple as they mature on their drooping stems.  Another name for pokeweed is poke sallet, with sallet translating to salad, on account of its fresh spring shoots and leaves being harvested and prepared as a vegetable.  However, all mature parts of the plant, as well as the berries, are highly toxic and should not be consumed.  For the shoots to be edible, they must be boiled in three sets of water for several minutes before consumption.  This plant is highly toxic and considered an invasive species in many areas, so ensure it is planted responsibly.  

Provide pokeweed plants with a location that receives at least four hours of direct sun exposure to encourage healthy growth.  Well-draining, average to rich soils are ideal for growing pokeweed, and they can handle a wide range of pH levels.  During their first year, ensure pokeweed plants are watered at least once weekly in the absence of rain, though they should only require supplemental watering during extended periods of drought after becoming established.  Pokeweed plants do not require fertilizer and should be cut back annually during the winter to manage their growth.  Readily propagated from seed, collect seeds from the berries, store them somewhere just above freezing temperatures for three months, then plant them in the spring.  Learn more in the Plant Story community!

3-6 hours of sun per day, with protection from intense mid-day sun

Water moderately, allowing the top 3cm to dry out between watering.

Phytolacca Americana

Phytolacca americana

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