About

This upright, herbaceous perennial that produces green foliage with purple stems and leaf undersides. Striking racemes of pink flowers bloom from midsummer to early autumn, followed by purple-black fruit.

About the genus

Phytolacca are herbaceous perennials, shrubs or trees, with simple leaves, small flowers in erect or drooping spike-like racemes are followed by glossy, fleshy fruits

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C

Plant details

Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
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