Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana)

Family: Phytolaccaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Phytolacca americana is a PERENNIAL growing to 2 m (6ft) by 1.5 m (5ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from August to September, and the seeds ripen from September to November. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries, Leaves, Shoots

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Leaves - they must be cooked and even then it is best to change the water once. They are used like spinach. Only the young leaves should be used since they become toxic with age. Caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. — Leaves - they must be cooked and even then it is best to change the water once.; They are used like spinach.; Only the young leaves should be used since they become toxic with age.; Caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Habitat & North American Range

Damp rich soils in clearings, woodland margins and roadsides. Disturbed areas, pastures, clearings, thickets, woodland borders and roadsides from sea level to 1400 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)