Authorities put out warning for South West to remain vigilant against pokeweed

South West residents are being told to keep a lookout for the toxic pokeweed plant after a weed was recently removed at a Perth property. The pokeweed plant — which can grow up to 2.5m tall and has bright green leaves up to 40cm long on a smooth purplish stem — is not safe to handle or eat, and is an invasive species. It is currently likely to be either in bloom with white to magenta flowers which form in elongated clusters hanging from branches, or showing its drooping purple-black berries. The plant looks similar to the already widespread inkweed but grows taller and has larger leaves and drooping berry stalks. Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development officers are keeping a particularly close lookout for the plant in areas it has been detected in the past including Balingup, Mullalyup, Bridgetown and Pemberton. DPIRD biosecurity officer Zara Matthews said every resident should be wary of the plant. “We ask residents and visitors of Perth and the South West to please keep a lookout for pokeweed in your garden, local parks or natural areas,” she said. “Now is an ideal time to identify the plant . . . as it will be in flower or showing its distinctive purple-black berries. “Pokeweed, including its leaves and berries, is toxic to both humans and animals and should not be eaten or handled. “If you find suspect pokeweed, take a photo of the whole plant and report it to DPIRD. Do not collect the seeds, berries or leaves, or remove the plant.” Any suspected sightings should be reported to DPIRD on the MyPestGuide Reporter app or through the Pest and Disease Information Service.