Pokeweed
Phytolacca americana
Wildflower Coming Soon
Pokeweed is a bold Virginia native perennial that can reach 4-10 ft tall. Small greenish-white flowers develop into striking purple-black berries on reddish-purple stems from late summer into fall. The fruit is especially valuable to birds and other wildlife.
About This Plant
- Sun Exposure
- Full Sun, Part Shade
- Soil Moisture
- Medium, Medium to Wet
- Height
- 4-10 ft
- Spread
- 3-5 ft
- Bloom Time
- Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Mid Summer
- Bloom Color
- Greenish-white
- Garden Uses
- Bird garden; wildlife garden; naturalized area; woodland edge; back border
Pokeweed grows best in full sun to part shade in moderately moist soils and is common along woodland edges, field margins, and other disturbed areas. Its flowers support insects, while its berries are eaten by many songbirds and mammals. Because it can become large and self-seed freely, it works best where it has room to naturalize. All parts of the plant contain toxic compounds and should not be eaten without specialized knowledge and preparation.
Good to know: Tall perennial with reddish-purple stems and dark berries; self-seeds readily; plant parts are toxic if improperly consumed.