DPIRD Biosecurity Alert: Pokeweed

Published on Monday, 25 November 2024 at 9:45:00 AM

The following information comes from the Department of Primary Industries & Regional Development (DPIRD).

DPIRD is beginning its annual surveillance program in Mullalyup and Balingup from 26 November 2024.

These inspections will continue until late January, early February 2025 - inspectors will be accessing both private and public property to look for and control all pokeweed plants during this time. Landholders are asked to please keep a lookout for Pokeweed. If you suspect you have seen Pokeweed, do not collect the seeds, berries or leaves as they are all poisonous. Further information can be found on this page and the DPIRD website linked below.

Biosecurity alert: Pokeweed | Agriculture and Food

Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana) is a declared plant that is toxic to both humans and livestock. It is also an environmental weed, and can impact agricultural activities where it can contaminate produce.

The weed was found in December 2018 in the Balingup area, in the South-West region but has not previously been recorded in Western Australia.

The department's annual targeted surveillance and eradication program is underway (Nov to Feb) around Balingup, Mullalyup, Bridgetown and Pemberton. Access to grounds by DPIRD inspectors may be required.

Have you seen this plant?

This plant - seeds, berries and leaves - is toxic to both humans and livestock and can contaminate agricultural produce.

Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana) has recently been found in the Balingup area. This is a new weed for Western Australia. A collaborative program to eradicate this weed is now underway with government and industry working together.

The aim is to control all pokeweed plants prior to them setting seed this summer. We are asking all members of the local community to be on the lookout for this weed, and report any suspected sightings.

Pokeweed's most distinctive characteristic is showy purple-black berries which have been described as grape-like clusters (immature berries are green, turn white and then blackish purple).

What to look for

Large perennial shrub up to 2.5 metres.
Deep purple – black berries form in summer and are the most distinctive characteristic.
Large bright green leaves (up to 40 cm long) on a smooth purplish stem.
White to magenta flowers in elongated clusters that hang from the branches.
Fleshy white taproot system.

Similar weeds

Pokeweed is similar to inkweed (Phytolacca octandra), which is a widespread weed in the South West region. Pokeweed is taller, has larger leaves, and the berry stalks hang down.