Poke

Poke is a strong medicinal herb to be used cautiously in low doses. Stimulating to the lymph system to clear blockages, the fresh root can be made into an oil (for external use only) to treat mastitis, swollen glands of the lymph system and certain types of tumors in the breast. Young shoots were traditionally eaten as a spring tonic food in the South and Midwestern U.S., but they must be cooked thoroughly. Striking tropical looking plant reaching great height of 5-10 feet over the course of the summer with showy leaves and dark purple/black berries, which look tasty but are TOXIC. Perennial. Hardy to zones 4-8.