Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana)

American pokeweed is a massive, herbaceous perennial reaching 6 to 10 feet tall with thick, succulent magenta pink stems and long clusters of dark purple black berries. Wonderful forest edges and fence rows, it thrives in full sun to part shade and is adaptable to different soils. Its high fat berries are a favorite of cardinals, waxwings, and catbirds, while the plant serves as a host for the giant leopard moth. Its foliage can be prepped and enjoyed in salads or as any leafy green substitute, the berries are toxic.