Native Plants
![](../_images/smarty_plants.gif)
Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?
A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.
Did you know you can access the Native Plant Information Network with your web-enabled smartphone?
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
![](../_images/mr_smarty_plants_logo_web_200w.jpg)
rate this answer
![](../_images/star_00.gif)
Tuesday - May 21, 2013
From: Waterford, CA
Region: California
Topic: Poisonous Plants
Title: Beneficial characteristics of Phytolacca americana (Pokeweed)
Answered by: Nan Hampton
QUESTION:
I have a surprise Polk weed plant growing in my back yard, does it have any beneficial uses,and if not, how best to eradicate it. Thank you.ANSWER:
Phytolacca americana (American pokeweed) is a very interesting plant and about this time each year we get inquiries from people about this large plant with white flowers and/or purple berries growing on their property. Native Americans used various parts of the plant to treat numerous ailments. Although the plants are considered poisonous, their various parts (leaves, shoots, berries) are also edible if collected and prepared properly. Here is more information from Ohio State University Extension.
There are several plants growing in my yard here in Texas. I like them! The birds love the berries; but, given the toxic nature of the plant—especially if you have children that come into your yard and would be attracted to the red berries—you might want to remove your plant. They aren't an endangered species. You want to do this before the plant is well-established. Since you have only one plant, it shouldn't be too difficult to achieve. If possible, dig up the entire plant with as much of the root as possible. If you can't get the entire root out of the ground, you could paint the cut surface of the root with an herbicide (such as RoundUp) using a small foam brush. You will want to paint the cut surface quickly after you cut down the plant because most plant cells can quickly seal themselves (a defense mechanism) and, thus, won't absorb as much herbicide. Seal the plant in a plastic bag and dispose of it in the garbage. Read and follow the health safety directions on the herbicide container and be careful not to get the herbicide on any plant you're interested in keeping. More plants may show up. Birds eat and deposit seeds.
Here's an interesting article: Pokeweed, American (Phytolacca americana): The Jekyll and Hyde Plant.
From the Image Gallery
More Poisonous Plants Questions
hummingbird attractants
May 03, 2012 - I live in Baytown, Texas and am looking for a variety of plants that attract Hummingbirds, but are also pet friendly. I have two dogs, so this is a major concern. I am putting the plants in my backyar...
view the full question and answer
Is Loropetalum poisonous to horses in Lake City FL?
October 26, 2010 - Is loropetalum poisonous to horses? I know it is a member of the witch hazel family but cannot find a definitive answer about loropetalum itself.
Thank you!
view the full question and answer
Fast-growing, Horse-safe Pasture Tree for Okeechobee, FL
July 05, 2012 - I'm looking for a fast growing tree to plant in pasture that's safe for horses.
view the full question and answer
Root cuttings for non-native, poisonous oleander from Mobile AL
December 16, 2010 - I need help with best method to root cuttings from my oleander tree. Please advise best method. Thanks
view the full question and answer
Injury while pulling weeds in Chandler TX
November 18, 2009 - I stabbed my self this last weekend when pulling roots from a bed so i'm not sure what it was. At the time it was a sharp pain so I pulled off my glove to look at it,barely scratched the skin so on I...
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |