American pokeweed (Phytolacca americana) observed in Ferguson Rd, Heber Springs, AR, US
iNaturalist: andrewwtpowell
Citizen Science
American pokeweed's large, striking form and toxic berries make it a plant every backyard naturalist should recognize — birds feast on the fruit and spread seeds widely, so knowing it helps you manage what volunteers up in your garden bed next spring.
Someone in Heber Springs, Arkansas spotted and photographed American pokeweed — a tall, dramatic native plant with deep purple-black berries and magenta stems — and the sighting was confirmed by multiple experts on iNaturalist. The plant is native to eastern North America and can grow to 10 feet tall in a single season. While it's poisonous to humans and most mammals, birds love the berries and are major spreaders of the plant.
Key Findings
Research-grade verification achieved, meaning at least 2/3 of identifiers agreed on the species identification
Location documented in Heber Springs, AR (Cleburne County), contributing to the species' range mapping in Arkansas
Phytolacca americana confirmed present in a roadside/disturbed habitat context on Ferguson Rd
chevron_right Technical Summary
A research-grade observation of American pokeweed was recorded in Heber Springs, Arkansas, confirming the plant's presence in that locality with sufficient photographic evidence to meet iNaturalist's verification standard.
Abstract Preview
Research-grade observation of American pokeweed in Ferguson Rd, Heber Springs, AR, US.
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Species Mentioned
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Phytolacca americana, also known as American pokeweed, pokeweed, poke sallet, pokeberry, dragonberries, pigeonberry weed, and inkberry, is a poisonous, herbaceous perennial plant in the pokeweed family Phytolaccaceae. This pokeweed grows 1 to 3 metres. It has simple leaves on green to red or purp...