Pokeweed

How do I take care of Pokeweed? 

Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana) is also known as pokeberry and inkberry. This perennial plant dies back to the ground in winter and sends up new growth each spring. As the name pokeWEED implies it spreads and can easily take over an area. This and the fact all parts of the plants are poisonous to animals and people, usually makes removal the preferred care. Some gardeners harvest the young spring leaves and shoots to cook and eat like spinach. They need to be boiled several times and the first water must be discarded. I think I will stick to spinach.

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