Pokeweed
(Phytolacca americana)
Synonyms: Phytolacca decandra
Common Names: Poke, Poke Salet
Family: Phytolaccaceae
Description: This lovely botanical with unique white flowers and deep red/purple berries is native to the Eastern half of the United States. These commonly consumed greens are a delicacy in the Appalachian region of the United States, but has fallen out of favor over time. Eating these greens was once so popular, that Elvis wrote Poke Salad Annie about it.
Uses: Young leaves can be eaten like spinach after boiling and 2-3 water changes. Leaves smaller than 5 inches on plants that are less than 12 inches tall, should be used. Berries can be crushed and used as dye or ink. Oil from the seeds can be used to make soap. Poke was once listed in the U.S. Pharmacopeia from 1820 – 1916 and in the National Formulary until 1947. The root can be topically used for lymphatic swelling. It may be a source for antiviral and antibacterial phytochemicals that could treat cold sores and the flu. Leaves may also contain phytochemicals that can treat skin disorders.
Note: Mature leaves, stem, root, and berries are not to be eaten or used internally. They are very poisonous.
References:
Kane, Charles W. Wild Edible Plants of Texas. Lincoln Town Press, 2017
Dull, Delena. Edible and Useful Plants of Texas and the Southwest. University of Texas Press, 2013
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