American Pokeweed

Phytolacca americana L.

Family: PhytolaccaceaeZones: 4a-8b

Weedy and Self-Seeding

Pet & Human Safety

Toxic to people and pets

Hazardous parts

all parts: flowers, fruits, leaves, roots, seeds and stems (roots and seeds most concentrated)

Preparation

One source describes traditional boiling; PlotAndPetal does not advise eating any part of this plant.

Hazard type

poisoning (ingestion), skin irritation (contact dermatitis), NC State: the plant contains substances that cause cell division and can damage chromosomes; they can be absorbed through any abrasions in the skin, potentially causing serious blood aberrations, so NC State strongly recommends wearing gloves when handling the plant

Hazard route

ingestion; skin contact

How complete this information is

The safety information on this page is complete as far as our sources go. That is not a statement that the plant is safe.

Toxic to pets

Cats: not verified. Dogs: not verified. NC State warns that the plant is poisonous to 'pets' without separating cats and dogs, and it is not found on the ASPCA lists as far as we read; that is not a clearance. The app shows a warning, not a verdict for either animal. Livestock: UF/IFAS names colic and diarrhea, hogs are at particular risk from eating the taproot, and sheep, cattle, horses and poultry are susceptible but rarely affected because they do not readily eat it. People: NC State rates it medium severity with every part toxic (flowers, fruit, leaves, roots, seeds, stems) and says it can cause contact dermatitis. UF/IFAS says all parts contain saponins, oxalates and phytolacine, with roots and seeds the most concentrated.

PlotAndPetal cannot tell you whether a plant you found can be eaten. Only someone who can see the plant can identify it.

Poison control

If someone has collapsed, cannot be woken, is having a seizure or has trouble breathing, call 911 now. For any other possible poisoning, call Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222.

Emergency number source: U.S. federal law (47 U.S.C. § 251(e)(3)), read 2026-10-07.

Naturalist Lore

Historical Background & Breeding Lore

The history of this plant and its name, and how it was bred, where we have them.

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Care

Hardiness zones: USDA 4a-8b
Mature size: NC State lists height 4-10 feet and width 3-5 feet.
Where it comes from: Southeastern United States; distributed across northern and central North America.

Soil & Drainage

Pruning & Flush Rhythm

Feeding Schedule

How to prepare the soil, when and what to feed, and how and when to prune where that applies.

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