Species guide
American pokeweed
Toxic if eatenPhytolacca americana
What does American pokeweed look like?
A large plant with smooth reddish-purple stems, big oval leaves, and drooping clusters of glossy dark-purple berries in late summer.
Is American pokeweed dangerous?
All parts are poisonous if eaten — the root and berries most of all. The attractive berries are a particular risk to children.
Commonly confused with
- Elderberry: woody shrub with flat-topped berry clusters
What should I do about American pokeweed?
Keep children and pets away, and wear gloves to remove it. Seek medical care if any part is eaten.
Never decide what's safe to eat or touch from a photo or a web page. Identification here is for learning and curiosity only. For anything you might eat, handle or that could harm you or a pet, consult a qualified local expert, and seek medical or veterinary care if exposure has happened.