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Key Facts
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Pokeweeds
Pokeweeds
Pokeweeds
Pokeweeds
Pokeweeds (Phytolacca)
Also known as : Poke sallets, Pokeroots, Ombú
The pokeweeds (Phytolacca) are small group of flowering herbs, shrubs, and trees. Most pokeweedss are generally toxic if ingested raw. One notable species of pokeweed, the Ombu (P. dioica) is often associated with Gaucho culture – being one of the only sizable trees on the South American pampas, these plants provided shelter and were used as landmarks by horsemen.
Lifespan
Lifespan
Perennial
info

Key Facts About Pokeweeds

Attributes of Pokeweeds

Leaf type
Deciduous

Scientific Classification of Pokeweeds

distribution

Distribution of Pokeweeds

Distribution Map of Pokeweeds

distribution map
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
habit
care detail

How to Grow and Care for Pokeweeds

how to grow and care
Pokeweeds requires moderate care. It needs full sun to partial shade and moderately moist, well-drained soil. Pokeweeds adapts to a wide range of temperatures, preferably between 60°F-85°F. Common challenges include pests like aphids and diseases like leaf spot. Overwatering may also lead to root rot. Seasonal considerations for pokeweeds involve reducing irrigation during winter. In spring, ensure to support taller species to avoid stem damage. Proper pruning after flowering is essential each season.
More Info About Caring for Pokeweeds
species

Exploring the Pokeweeds Plants

8 most common species:
Phytolacca americana
Pokeweed
Although its berries look juicy and tempting, the fruits and the root of pokeweed are toxic and should not be eaten. Pokeweed is considered a pest species by farmers but is nevertheless often grown as an ornamental plant. Its berries can be made into pokeberry ink as well.
Phytolacca dioica
Ombú
Ombú (Phytolacca dioica) is a deciduous tree that will grow from 12 to 18 m tall. Blooms from summer to fall with small white flowers. Yellow fruits ripen in fall after flowers finish blooming. It is a fast growing tree with soft, spongy wood that makes it a good choice for bonsai growing because the wood is very easy to shape and train.
Phytolacca icosandra
Tropical Pokeweed
Tropical Pokeweed (Phytolacca icosandra) grows up to 3 m tall. It produces a flower stalk full of white to pink blossoms from summer to winter. Black berries follow blooming. This plant is considered invasive in the United States.
Phytolacca acinosa
Indian poke
Indian poke (Phytolacca acinosa) is a perennial shrub with deep red or purple berries. The genus name for this species comes from a Greek word for “plant” and a Latin word that means “dye,” and a look at the berries makes the reason obvious. Its mature leaves and stalks are poisonous.
Phytolacca polyandra
Chinese pokeweed
Chinese pokeweed is a herbaceous perennial known for its striking cluster of berries that transition from green to dark purple as they mature. This plant features oval-shaped leaves arranged alternately on red-tinted stems, giving it a unique appearance. It thrives in open, often disturbed habitats, where its robust root system supports resilient growth. The flowers, though less conspicuous, contribute to its distinctive charm with multiple stamens perching above the petals.
Phytolacca japonica
Japanese pokeweed
Phytolacca japonica is a species of flowering plant in the pokeweed family (Phytolaccaceae). It native to eastern Asia where it is found in China and Japan (from the Kantō region westward). Its natural habitat is in forests edges in ravines and along riversides. Phytolacca japonica is an herbaceous perennial growing to 1.5 meters tall. Its stem is thick and fleshy and turns red with age. It produces erect racemes of flowers that are initially pale pink turning reddish with maturity. Flowering time is from summer to fall. Its ripe fruits are purplish-black. It can be distinguished from the similar-looking Phytolacca acinosa by its fused carpels and from Phytolacca americana by its more dense and erect inflorescence.
Phytolacca bogotensis
Southern pokeweed
Southern pokeweed is a perennial herb characterized by its stout, reddish stems and large, dark green leaves with a prominent central vein. Its clusters of small, white flowers bloom in summer, giving way to dark purple berries that are a signature of the Phytolacca species. Thriving in cool highland climates, southern pokeweed utilizes its robust root system to store nutrients, ensuring its survival across seasons.
Phytolacca rivinoides
Venezuelan pokeweed
Venezuelan pokeweed is characterized by its upright, bushy stature, supporting deep green leaves which taper to a point. Clusters of small, star-shaped flowers give way to glossy, dark berries that are traditionally used as a dye, yet caution is advised as they are toxic if ingested. Thriving in well-drained soil, venezuelan pokeweed can flourish in both sun and partial shade, adapting vigorously to diverse conditions.
popular genus

More Popular Genus

Dracaena
Dracaena
Dracaena are popular house plants that are easy to grow. They can tolerate low-light conditions and require little watering. Their leaves range from variegated to dark green. Their characteristic traits include woody stems that grow slowly but offer a striking appearance for small spaces such as apartments or offices.
Ficus
Fig trees
Fig trees have been cultivated in many regions for their fruits, particularly the common fig, F. carica. Most of the species have edible fruits, although the common fig is the only one of commercial value. Fig trees are also important food sources for wildlife in the tropics, including monkeys, bats, and insects.
Rubus
Brambles
Brambles are members of the rose family, and there are hundreds of different types to be found throughout the European countryside. They have been culturally significant for centuries; Christian folklore stories hold that when the devil was thrown from heaven, he landed on a bramble bush. Their vigorous growth habit can tangle into native plants and take over.
Acer
Maples
The popular tree family known as maples change the color of their leaves in the fall. Many cultural traditions encourage people to watch the colors change, such as momijigari in Japan. Maples popular options for bonsai art. Alternately, their sap is used to create maple syrup.
Prunus
Prunus
Prunus is a genus of flowering fruit trees that includes almonds, cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, and apricots. These are often known as "stone fruits" because their pits are large seeds or "stones." When prunus trees are damaged, they exhibit "gummosis," a condition in which the tree's gum (similar to sap) is secreted to the bark to help heal external wounds.
Solanum
Nightshades
Nightshades is a large and diverse genus of plants, with more than 1500 different types worldwide. This genus incorporates both important staple food crops like tomato, potato, and eggplant, but also dangerous poisonous plants from the nightshade family. The name was coined by Pliny the Elder almost two thousand years ago.
Rosa
Roses
Most species of roses are shrubs or climbing plants that have showy flowers and sharp thorns. They are commonly cultivated for cut flowers or as ornamental plants in gardens due to their attractive appearance, pleasant fragrance, and cultural significance in many countries. The rose hips (fruits) can also be used in jams and teas.
Quercus
Oaks
Oaks are among the world's longest-lived trees, sometimes growing for over 1,000 years! The oldest known oak tree is in the southern United States and is over 1,500 years old. Oaks produce an exceedingly popular type of wood which is used to make different products, from furniture and flooring to wine barrels and even cosmetic creams.
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About
Key Facts
Distribution
How To Care
All Species
More Genus
Pokeweeds
Pokeweeds
Pokeweeds
Pokeweeds
Pokeweeds
Pokeweeds
Pokeweeds
Phytolacca
Also known as: Poke sallets, Pokeroots, Ombú
The pokeweeds (Phytolacca) are small group of flowering herbs, shrubs, and trees. Most pokeweedss are generally toxic if ingested raw. One notable species of pokeweed, the Ombu (P. dioica) is often associated with Gaucho culture – being one of the only sizable trees on the South American pampas, these plants provided shelter and were used as landmarks by horsemen.
Lifespan
Lifespan
Perennial
info

Key Facts About Pokeweeds

Attributes of Pokeweeds

Leaf type
Deciduous

Scientific Classification of Pokeweeds

distribution

Distribution of Pokeweeds

Distribution Map of Pokeweeds

distribution map
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
care detail

How to Grow and Care for Pokeweeds

Pokeweeds requires moderate care. It needs full sun to partial shade and moderately moist, well-drained soil. Pokeweeds adapts to a wide range of temperatures, preferably between 60°F-85°F. Common challenges include pests like aphids and diseases like leaf spot. Overwatering may also lead to root rot. Seasonal considerations for pokeweeds involve reducing irrigation during winter. In spring, ensure to support taller species to avoid stem damage. Proper pruning after flowering is essential each season.
More Info About Caring for Pokeweeds
species

Exploring the Pokeweeds Plants

8 most common species:
Phytolacca americana
Pokeweed
Although its berries look juicy and tempting, the fruits and the root of pokeweed are toxic and should not be eaten. Pokeweed is considered a pest species by farmers but is nevertheless often grown as an ornamental plant. Its berries can be made into pokeberry ink as well.
Phytolacca dioica
Ombú
Ombú (Phytolacca dioica) is a deciduous tree that will grow from 12 to 18 m tall. Blooms from summer to fall with small white flowers. Yellow fruits ripen in fall after flowers finish blooming. It is a fast growing tree with soft, spongy wood that makes it a good choice for bonsai growing because the wood is very easy to shape and train.
Phytolacca icosandra
Tropical Pokeweed
Tropical Pokeweed (Phytolacca icosandra) grows up to 3 m tall. It produces a flower stalk full of white to pink blossoms from summer to winter. Black berries follow blooming. This plant is considered invasive in the United States.
Phytolacca acinosa
Indian poke
Indian poke (Phytolacca acinosa) is a perennial shrub with deep red or purple berries. The genus name for this species comes from a Greek word for “plant” and a Latin word that means “dye,” and a look at the berries makes the reason obvious. Its mature leaves and stalks are poisonous.
Show More Species
popular genus

More Popular Genus

Dracaena
Dracaena
Dracaena are popular house plants that are easy to grow. They can tolerate low-light conditions and require little watering. Their leaves range from variegated to dark green. Their characteristic traits include woody stems that grow slowly but offer a striking appearance for small spaces such as apartments or offices.
Ficus
Fig trees
Fig trees have been cultivated in many regions for their fruits, particularly the common fig, F. carica. Most of the species have edible fruits, although the common fig is the only one of commercial value. Fig trees are also important food sources for wildlife in the tropics, including monkeys, bats, and insects.
Rubus
Brambles
Brambles are members of the rose family, and there are hundreds of different types to be found throughout the European countryside. They have been culturally significant for centuries; Christian folklore stories hold that when the devil was thrown from heaven, he landed on a bramble bush. Their vigorous growth habit can tangle into native plants and take over.
Acer
Maples
The popular tree family known as maples change the color of their leaves in the fall. Many cultural traditions encourage people to watch the colors change, such as momijigari in Japan. Maples popular options for bonsai art. Alternately, their sap is used to create maple syrup.
Prunus
Prunus
Prunus is a genus of flowering fruit trees that includes almonds, cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, and apricots. These are often known as "stone fruits" because their pits are large seeds or "stones." When prunus trees are damaged, they exhibit "gummosis," a condition in which the tree's gum (similar to sap) is secreted to the bark to help heal external wounds.
Solanum
Nightshades
Nightshades is a large and diverse genus of plants, with more than 1500 different types worldwide. This genus incorporates both important staple food crops like tomato, potato, and eggplant, but also dangerous poisonous plants from the nightshade family. The name was coined by Pliny the Elder almost two thousand years ago.
Rosa
Roses
Most species of roses are shrubs or climbing plants that have showy flowers and sharp thorns. They are commonly cultivated for cut flowers or as ornamental plants in gardens due to their attractive appearance, pleasant fragrance, and cultural significance in many countries. The rose hips (fruits) can also be used in jams and teas.
Quercus
Oaks
Oaks are among the world's longest-lived trees, sometimes growing for over 1,000 years! The oldest known oak tree is in the southern United States and is over 1,500 years old. Oaks produce an exceedingly popular type of wood which is used to make different products, from furniture and flooring to wine barrels and even cosmetic creams.
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Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!
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17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
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Nearly 5 years of research
product icon
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
ad
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