Phytolacca acinosa aka Indian Poke

Phytolacca acinosa is an easily grown plant that succeeds in most soil types and requires minimal maintenance once established. It adapts to a range of conditions from full sun to partial shade and is notably resistant to rabbit damage. The plant self-seeds readily in favorable locations, which can be an advantage or disadvantage depending on garden management preferences.

Phytolacca acinosa is a herbaceous perennial that grows 50-150 cm (1.5-5 feet) tall with a spread of approximately 1 meter (3 feet). It has a moderate growth rate and develops from a thick, fleshy rootstock. The stems are fleshy, either green or reddish-purple with longitudinal grooves, supporting elliptical leaves.

Phytolacca acinosa is cold hardy in USDA zones 7-10 and UK hardiness zone 8. When dormant, it tolerates temperatures down to -5 to -10°C (14-23°F). However, young spring growth is vulnerable to late frosts and may be damaged if exposed. The plant is native to warm temperate to subtropical climates at elevations of 500-3,400 meters.

Phytolacca acinosa produces upright flowering spikes bearing small white or greenish-white flowers from July to August. The flowers are hermaphroditic (containing both male and female organs) and develop into clusters of small berry-like fruits that ripen to deep purple-black from August to September. The berries contain a red pigment traditionally used for ink.

Phytolacca acinosa can be propagated by seed or division. Division is performed in March or October by separating the rootstock, ensuring each section has at least one growth bud. The plant also self-seeds readily in suitable locations.

Phytolacca acinosa is exclusively an outdoor plant, thriving in gardens within USDA zones 7-10. It grows naturally in valleys, hillsides, forest margins, and roadsides across its native Asian range. The plant succeeds in most soils and tolerates both full sun and partial shade. While dormant plants are frost-hardy, protect young spring growth from late frosts in cooler climates.

Phytolacca acinosa is a herbaceous perennial that dies back to its fleshy rootstock in autumn and regrows in spring. During the growing season (spring through autumn), maintain consistent soil moisture and monitor for self-seeding. In late autumn, the root can be harvested for medicinal use if desired. Protect emerging spring growth from late frosts in cooler climates, as young shoots are frost-sensitive despite the plant's overall hardiness.

Phytolacca acinosa is remarkably pest-resistant and has no commonly reported disease problems. Sources specifically note that the plant appears to be immune to rabbit predation, making it suitable for gardens where rabbits are problematic. The plant's toxicity likely contributes to its resistance to browsing animals and many pests.

Parts of Phytolacca acinosa are edible with careful preparation, earning an edibility rating of 2/5. Young leaves must be cooked and are used like spinach. Young shoots provide an excellent asparagus substitute. However, toxins develop as the plant matures, so only young parts should be consumed. The root from white-flowered forms can be eaten after cooking and leaching. Due to toxicity concerns, consumption requires knowledge of proper preparation techniques.

Phytolacca acinosa has extensive traditional medicinal uses across Asian folk medicine, rating 3/5 for medicinal value. The root has antiasthmatic, antibacterial, antifungal, diuretic, expectorant, and vermifuge properties. It's traditionally used for urinary disorders, nephritis, edema, and abdominal distension. Externally, it treats boils, carbuncles, and sores. Modern research has identified anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory compounds. However, all parts are toxic and medicinal use requires qualified supervision.

Beyond food and medicine, Phytolacca acinosa has limited other uses, rating 1/5. The primary non-food, non-medicinal use is the extraction of a red pigment from the ripe berries, which has been traditionally used to make ink and dye. The deep purple-black fruits yield this distinctive red coloring matter.

Sources suggest there may be two distinct forms of Phytolacca acinosa distinguished by flower and root color. One form has white flowers and a white, edible root (when properly prepared). Another form has reddish-purple flowers and a purple root that is reportedly more toxic and not recommended for consumption. The taxonomic status of these forms requires further clarification, but gardeners should be aware of these potential differences when considering edible uses.

Indian Poke’s native range is E. Asia - China to India.

Indian Poke should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

If you're planting Indian Poke, you need to make sure you use a potting soil that can retain moisture. While the soil should still be able to drain well, it should contain plenty of organic matter like coco coir or sphagnum moss to help it stay moist and nourish the roots of your plants. This is especially important since Indian Poke is especially sensitive to dry soil. You can also add other amendments, such as compost, to help retain moisture and provide extra nutrients to your plants. Be sure to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy, throughout the growing season. With the right soil and proper care, your Indian Poke will thrive!

To ensure optimal growth, the Indian Poke prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.