Pokeweed aka Pokeberries

Pokeweed is a native North American perennial. While some people say you can eat the leaves, this is only true for young leaves that have been boiled three times. Even then, toxin's remain. The leaves are used topically as a poultice. Perhaps the most famous pokeweed fact is that the Declaration of Independence of the United States was written with fermented pokeweed berry juice. Also, the ink was popular for letter writing during the American Civil War (1860's). Over time, the ink turns brown. Finally, giant leopard moth larvae devour the leaves. We love their beauty and lore but sure hate pulling them out of our yard!

We share this Sky Watch Friday picture today while winter has not yet kicked fall to the curb!

Comments

[Louise]

Glad fall is keeping winter at bay for you. We've had winter this week, but might get some autumn back for next. Lovely picture.I grew up around poke berries, but there are none here. I didn't realize how picturesque they were until I moved away from them!

[Martha]

They make a lovely photo but sounds like it is a nuisance plant. Nice to leave some for the native insects in fauna, though.

[cieldequimper]

Didn't know the name, hope I'll remember it! Beautiful photograph, ah that sky!

[Pat]

Are the berries edible? They look tasty.

[Myrna]

Great Pic, love the blue sky in background.I have had to pull up many a Pokeweed in my life time.lol
~Myrna

[Serendipity]

That's an interesting looking plant. Nice shot!

[Jennifer]

I never knew what that plants was, although I've always liked how colourful it is. Thanks for educating me :)