Poke, Domestic
Phytolacca americana
Family: Phytolaccaceae
Potentially Toxic
Herbaceous perennial. Native to the central, eastern and southern
U.S.. Bears grape-like clusters of purplish-black berries filled
with crimson juice, which has been used as a source of red ink, a culinary
dye and also to redden the lips and cheeks. This plant is an incredible
lymphatic stimulant for resolving lymphatic blockage, but must be taken
only in carefully-measured, tiny doses. The infused oil of the root
is used externally for treating mastitis and breast cancer. Cultivation:
Extra care. Heat-dependent germinator. Works very well to sow in
mid-summer, attaining harvestable size after overwintering and growing
through another summer. Cold hardy. Thin to 4 feet apart. Grows
7 to 12 feet tall.
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