Pokeweed
phytolacca acinosa
Also known as: ["Indian Ink","Garget","Pokeberry"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with large, alternate leaves and clusters of small white flowers followed by dark purple berries.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fast growing"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Phytolaccaceae |
| Genus: | Phytolacca |
| Botanical Name: | Phytolacca acinosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: partially shaded garden bed or container in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining potting mix with organic matter like compost or peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate. Remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid excessive cutting.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates. Adjust exposure based on season to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to avoid leaf burn. Place in filtered sunlight outdoors or near an east-facing window indoors. Protect from harsh afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid placing near heat sources.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a mix with good water retention but fast drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C).
Use a thermometer to monitor; group plants for microclimate benefits; avoid sudden temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to remove salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light. Maintain consistent moisture and warmth (65–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand. Can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth indicates establishment, typically within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud. Remove crossing branches and thin out dense growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts. Focus on removing leggy stems and spent flowers.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased parts first; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; trim roots if needed; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall/winter. Adjust based on rainfall and humidity.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky ingredients.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), stunted growth, bud drop, or leaf necrosis (browning/tissue death).
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback. Prolonged cold can damage roots and weaken the plant.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots with bubble wrap, and avoid cold drafts. Water sparingly until conditions improve.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced vigor due to excessive heat and water loss.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer). Reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the toxins in Phytolacca acinosa, which can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms. The toxins can lead to significant health complications if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Phytolacca acinosa can lead to severe gastrointestinal distress and systemic toxicity due to the presence of phytolaccatoxin and phytolaccigenin. These compounds can cause significant physiological disruption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicPhytolacca acinosa contains phytolaccatoxin and phytolaccigenin, which are toxic glycosides that can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects upon ingestion. The toxins interfere with cellular processes, leading to systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Phytolacca acinosa safe for pets?
A: No, it is highly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Can the berries be eaten?
A: No, all parts of the plant are highly toxic to humans and animals.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts birds, bees, and butterflies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Phytolaccaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
