Poke

Botanical Name:  Phytolacca americana

Height: Very tall.

Season of bloom: Late summer.

Growing Conditions: Sun or light shade. Warm, very well-drained soil.

Wildlife benefits: Many birds enjoy the late-season fruit.

From Ottawa Valley or eastern Ontario sources: No. This species occurs in the Ottawa Valley but our original seed was from Central Ontario.

Remarks: Seeds and roots are poisonous – let the birds enjoy the fruit. Fruit can be used to create a magenta dye.

Availability: Poke plants do not overwinter in pots and so they are never available in spring. Seedlings started in the spring are usually available in August.

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