Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana) is a large, toxic perennial plant native to North America that has been introduced to Australia. It is easily recognised by its bright green, elliptical leaves and green to white flowers, which mature into red-purple berries borne in elongated clusters on a distinctive purple stem.

Pokeweed has a limited distribution across Australia but is considered a weed in all states and a declared pest in Western Australia. It can be found in a variety of environments, including disturbed soil, roadsides, rural properties, and home gardens.

The plant contains several toxic compounds, including saponins and oxalates, and all parts of the plant are poisonous to pets and livestock, with the root and green berries being particularly toxic. Animals that ingest pokeweed may develop gastrointestinal signs such as nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhoea. In more severe cases, clinical signs can include excessive salivation, reduced appetite, loss of coordination, and tremors.

Pet owners are advised to:

🌿Keep pets leashed while walking and closely supervise them around unfamiliar plants or weeds.

🌿Prevent access to pokeweed or other toxic plants if it is present in the garden and arrange for safe removal where possible.

🌿Avoid overgrown verges and areas with disturbed soil where toxic weeds are more common.

If your pet has ingested something they should not have, you can phone the Animal Poisons Helpline for rapid, up to date advice. The Animal Poisons Helpline provides expert advice to pet owners 24/7 and can be reached on: ☎️ 1300 869 738 (AU), 0800 869 738 (NZ) , 3106 4216 (SG), (917) 722-5958 (US) or +1917-722-5958 (CAN).

If you are a member of a veterinary team you can also join the Animal Poisons Centre For Vets Facebook group which is regularly updated with toxicology tidbits and poisoning trends. To stay up to date with the latest pet poison alerts and receive updates directly to your inbox, visit animalpoisons.com.au/stay-up-to-date and subscribe.