By Corner
United Kingdom
Please could someone tell me what the plant is in photo . It comes up every year and needs a very heavy support . The stem I's hollow and the birds don't touch it !!
- 19 Jun, 2015
Answers
The latin name is phytolacca americana.
19 Jun, 2015
The berries are a food source for birds and they are not affected by the poisonous nature of the plant. If you want to end its residence in your garden, cut it down to ground level and keep on cutting it back or give it a good pull with gloves on of course.
20 Jun, 2015
Here in the US, we call it Poke Weed, Pokeberries or Inkweed. They have medicinal properties but can be toxic if misused. The birds will gobble them up.
Caution is advised as the whole plant, but especially the berries, is poisonous raw, causing vomiting and diarrhea. A beautiful red ink and a dye are obtained from the fruit. The rootstock is rich in saponins and can be used as a soap substitute.
19 Jun, 2015