Also known as American Nightshade · American Poke · Cancer Jalap
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
American pokeweed (Phytolacca americana) is a large, herbaceous perennial known for its striking purplish stems and clusters of dark berries. Caution: all parts are poiso
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. More sun generally leads to more robust growth.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Drought-tolerant once established but prefers consistent moisture.
Adaptable to most soils, prefers moist, well-drained soil
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Perennial in USDA zones 3-9. Tolerates a wide range of temperatures once established.
Low
25% intensity
Generally does not require fertilization. Thrives in average to poor soils. Avoid over-fertilization.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts of the plant are toxic, especially the roots and seeds. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in large doses, can be fatal. Skin contact with the sap can cause irritation.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during establishment and dry periods. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant but thrives with consistent moisture.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.
Pruning is primarily for aesthetic control or to remove dead or damaged foliage. It can be cut back hard in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
Spent flower stalks can be removed to prevent excessive seed production if desired.
Propagated by seed or division. Seeds require stratification; sow in fall or provide a cold, moist period. Divisions are best done in early spring as the plant emerges.
Pokeweed readily self-seeds, often colonizing new areas.
Repotting is rarely necessary for established plants as they are large perennials with substantial root systems. If grown in containers, select a very large pot.
Repot in early spring if the plant becomes root-bound, moving to a larger container with fresh, well-draining soil.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of American Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana)
Where American Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Phytolaccaceae |
| Genus | Phytolacca |
| Species | Phytolacca americana |
Similar in genus Phytolacca
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
