How to Get Rid of Pokeweed in Your Yard
Rid of Pokeweed in Your Yard American buckwheat (Phytolacca americana) is a vigorous plant that can be tricky to remove. This perennial weed grows very fast and can reach 10 feet tall and three feet wide in a single season, crowding other nearby plants. Although buckwheat is native to eastern North America, it has spread to most of the United States and is considered invasive outside of its native range. But even if it's a native, you might not want this rough, aggressive plant in your yard. What does pokeweed look like? Often found along roadsides, disturbed fields, and woodlands, Pokeweed produces large, dark green leaves held on strong stems; And it can grow so large that it often looks like a shrub. Clusters of small, greenish-white flowers appear in early summer, followed by inky purple berries used as ink and dye. Beware of Pokeweed poisoning All parts of the American buckwheat plant are poisonous—especially the roots. "If allowed to grow unchecked, buckwhe