Also known as American Pokeweed · Indian Poke · Indian Pokeberry
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Phytolacca acinosa is a herbaceous perennial with large, attractive foliage and clusters of white flowers followed by dark berries. It's a robust plant for borders.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
50% intensity
Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade. More sun often leads to better flowering and fruiting.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist during the growing season, but allow top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in average room temperatures (18-24°C). Can tolerate cooler temperatures in winter.
Low
25% intensity
Minimal feeding required. A balanced liquid fertilizer diluted once or twice in spring/early summer is sufficient.
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 poisonous if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Phytolacca acinosa regularly during the growing season, ensuring the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Reduce watering in fall and winter, allowing the top few centimeters of soil to dry out between waterings. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.
Pruning is typically done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to maintain shape and improve air circulation.
Cut back overgrown stems to encourage bushier growth if needed. Deadheading spent flowers can prevent unwanted seeding.
Phytolacca acinosa can be propagated by seed, sown in autumn or early spring. It also readily self-seeds. Division of mature clumps in early spring is another effective method.
Cuttings can also be taken in summer, but are generally less successful than seed or division.
Younger plants may benefit from repotting every 1-2 years in spring, especially if they become root-bound.
Mature plants are generally slow-growing and do not require frequent repotting; they often prefer to be slightly pot-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Phytolacca Acinosa (Phytolacca acinosa)
Where Phytolacca Acinosa (Phytolacca acinosa) 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 acinosa |
Similar in genus Phytolacca
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
