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American pokeweed
Scientific Name: Phytolacca americana
Family: Phytolaccaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
American Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana)
American pokeweed, also known simply as pokeweed, is an herbaceous perennial plant with a long history and complex relationship with both humans and the environment. It's a striking plant, known for its size and vibrant colors.
Considerations for Pets
- All parts of the plant contain saponins and oxalates.
- Pokeweed poisoning can occur if pieces of the plant are ingested.
Considerations for Children
- Pokeweed poisoning can occur if pieces of the plant are ingested.
- The plant produces berries.
Scientific Classification
- Scientific Name: Phytolacca americana L.
- Family: Phytolaccaceae (Pokeweed Family)
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Alternative Scientific Names: Phytolacca decandra L., Phytolacca octandra (Inkweed).
Common Names
- Pokeweed
- Great Pokeweed
- Pokeberry
- Red Ink Plant
- Pigeonberry
- Poke Salet
- American Nightshade
- American Spinach
- Inkberry
- Pokeroot
- Garnet
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to eastern North America.
- Found in disturbed areas, fallow fields, along fences, and in damp woods.
- Has been introduced to other regions, including the southwestern United States.
Ecological Role
- In certain areas, it is considered a top priority species.
- Can be invasive.
- Has been reported to disrupt migration patterns of certain bird species due to its berries.
Morphological Characteristics
- Herbaceous perennial, growing up to 10 feet (3 meters) tall.
- Large leaves.
- Stems are smooth, round, and hairless, varying from light green to brilliant red.
- Deep red stems.
- Produces shiny purple berries.
Interactions with other organisms
- The berries are eaten by birds, including the American Robin, Northern Mockingbird, Mning Dove, Gray Catbird, Eastern Bluebird, Brown Thrashers, American Crows, Cardinals, and Starlings.
Resources
- RHS (Royal Horticultural Society): Offers help and information on Phytolacca americana.
- WebMD: Provides patient medical information on Pokeweed.
- Dave's Garden: Online community for sharing gardening tips and ideas.
- Peterson's Guide to Wild Edibles for Eastern/Central North America
- Native American Seed: Offers American Pokeweed for purchase.