Pokeweed? - Ask Extension
Is this pokeweed? It's about 5 feet tall, with a sturdy, thick, red stem. I hear it's poisonous to eat, can I yank it out of my yard with my bare hand...
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Pokeweed? #333106
Asked June 16, 2016, 4:59 PM EDT
Is this pokeweed? It's about 5 feet tall, with a sturdy, thick, red stem. I hear it's poisonous to eat, can I yank it out of my yard with my bare hands?
Kent County Michigan
Expert Response
Your plant is Pokeweed or Phytolacca americana, a native plant. Its species gave that one away. Just use gloves if pulling it out. It has a mighty taproot and pulling it may be difficult. Try to keep plant juice off of you and especially your eyes. You do not want to get the plant sap or juice on you.
