Safety note: All parts are toxic if ingested.
Pokeweed is a robust plant with striking purple stems and dark berries. Despite its toxicity, it has been used in traditional medicine and as a food source when properly prepared. Its large, bold leaves and berries make it a standout in the landscape.
Habitat
It thrives in disturbed areas, fields, and forest edges.
Diet
Birds eat the berries and help disperse the seeds.
How common
Common
Best time to see a Pokeweed
The best time to see a Pokeweed is June–September, when about 67% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 145,230 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
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Not certain it is a Pokeweed? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Pokeweed sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
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5,300+species
63national parks
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