Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana)

Family: Pokeweed Family (Phytolaccaceae)

Other Names: Pokeberry, Poke, Inkberry, Pigeonberry

Origin: Native

Historic First Bloom Seen: May 29*

GPS For Stand: N 39°04.469' W 84°24.927'

Interesting Facts: This plant occurs in the meadow area of the preserve. The common name "inkberry" refers to the berries being used historically as dyes or inks. DO NOT EAT THE BERRIES OF THIS PLANT, they are highly toxic and can even be fatal. Even the stem and leaves of this plant are toxic after they turn purple. However, the berries are a favorite of many species of birds including the now-extinct Passenger Pigeon and Cedar Waxwings.

*Average bloom time is based on a compilation of wildflower bloom times from 1975 to present.