Question: This shrub or small tree is growing in what was once a manure pile at the edge of the woods …
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Question
This shrub or small tree is growing in what was once a manure pile at the edge of the woods here in southeastern Vermont. It has large leaves and pinkish flowers. It is the only one that I have seen in this area. Can you help me identify it and is it native or something that came from seed in the manure pile? Thank you. Lynne
Answer
Dear Imcass, this plant is Phytolacca americana (American pokeweed). It is a robust herbaceous plant (not a shrub or tree). The flowers will mature as dark purple berries. Phytolacca americana is a species that is common in agricultural areas where the disturbance keeps a canopy from forming and shading the plants.
