Phytolaccaceae Phytolacca americana L.
Source: Magness et al. 1971
Poke is a native plant throughout eastern North America. It is a large-rooted perennial, with a strong growing top, up to 10 or more feet in height, which dies down in winter. The young, asparagus-like shoots formed in the spring are sometimes used as pot herbs. They are sometimes grown from lifted roots in winter, similar to forced rhubarb. The roots and seeds are poisonous.
Production in the U.S.: No data. Little cultivation, but some gathered from wild.
Use: As pot herb.
Part of plant consumed: Young tender shoots only.