About
Phytolacca americana, American pokeweed, is an upright, robust herbaceous perennial with oval or lance-shaped, mid-green leaves tinged purple in autumn. White-pink flowers in racemes appear from midsummer to early autumn, followed by conspicuous, crimson-black berries. A bold and architectural plant for a sunny or partly shaded, moist border. Note: all parts are poisonous.
About the genus
Phytolacca, the pokeweeds, are herbaceous perennials, shrubs or trees with simple leaves, small flowers in erect or drooping, spike-like racemes and glossy, fleshy, colourful fruits. Ornamental plants for borders and wild gardens. Note: all parts are poisonous.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
Native toUSA
ToxicityTOXIC if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Harmful to pets if eaten (dogs) - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any fertile moist soil in sun or partial shade
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed in early spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to virus diseases