Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana)
Care, watering, light and tips for Pokeweed on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Phytolaccaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Pokeweed
Phytolacca americana, commonly known as American Pokeweed, is a robust, fast-growing perennial native to North America. It is characterized by its reddish stems, large oval leaves, and clusters of dark purple berries that appear in autumn, adding a wild and ornamental touch to naturalized gardens or woodland edges. It is important to remember that all parts of this plant are toxic if ingested.
Native range
Eastern North America
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade and adapts to a wide range of soils, though it thrives best in rich, moist, well-drained substrates. Once established, it is quite drought-tolerant but appreciates regular watering during dry periods. This is a low-maintenance plant that can become invasive if not controlled, so it's crucial to monitor its spread and remove berries before they drop to prevent self-seeding. Avoid planting it near areas where children or pets can easily access its toxic fruits.
How to save a dying Pokeweed
- Warning signs
- Wilting or yellowing leaves, soft or blackened stems. Soft or foul-smelling roots.
- First aid
- Carefully remove the plant from the soil. Examine roots, cut off damaged ones. Replant in well-draining soil.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot. Also lack of light or very compacted soil.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if rot hasn't advanced too much. Act quickly to save it.