Family: Phytolaccaceae
Author: L.
Bibliography: Syst. Nat. ed. 10, 2: 1040 (1759)
Year: 1759
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Phytolacca
Vegetable: False
Observations: Mexico to Venezuela and Bolivia, Caribbean
Description
The Red inkplant, botanically referred to as Phytolacca icosandra, is a remarkable species within the Phytolaccaceae family. First described by Linnaeus in his seminal work “Systema Naturae” (10th edition, volume 2, page 1040, published in 1759), this plant is notable for its striking appearance and widespread distribution.
The Red inkplant thrives in a variety of climatic conditions and is indigenous to regions stretching from Mexico to Venezuela and Bolivia, as well as throughout the Caribbean. This extensive geographical range underscores the plant’s adaptability and resilience.
Characterized by its vibrant red stems and berries, the Red inkplant is often recognized for its ornamental value. The colorful berries, which appear in clusters, have historically been utilized to produce a natural dye, hence the common name “Red inkplant”. These berries are not only visually appealing but also play a significant role in local ecosystems, providing a food source for various bird species.
Phytolacca icosandra can grow in a variety of soil types, although it tends to prefer well-draining soil conditions. The plant’s ability to thrive in different environments makes it an attractive option for both garden enthusiasts and natural landscapers looking to add a splash of color to their settings.
In terms of botanical features, the Red inkplant exhibits long, lance-shaped leaves that are typically bright green, providing a striking contrast to its red stems. The flowers of this plant, although more subdued in color compared to the berries, are small and white, often forming in extended racemes that add an additional layer of texture and interest to the plant’s appearance.
Despite its beauty and ecological benefits, caution must be exercised as parts of the Red inkplant, particularly the roots and unripe berries, contain toxic compounds. It is therefore advised to handle the plant with care and avoid ingestion.
Overall, the Red inkplant is a fascinating species that combines aesthetic appeal with ecological significance, making it a noteworthy subject for both botanists and horticulturists alike.
Common Names
Spa: almorsaca, jaboncillo, mazorquilla, scorpion-tail
Eng: button pokeweed, red inkplant, tropical pokeweed
En: Red inkplant, Tropical pokeweed, Button pokeweed, Inkberry
Ar: صبغة علمية الأسدية
Zh: 二十蕊商陸
Es: Mazorquilla, Almorsaca, Scorpion-tail, Jaboncillo
Zh-tw: 二十蕊商陸
Synonyms
- Sarcoca icosandra ((L.) Raf.)
Distribution
- Belize (native)
- Bolivia (native)
- Colombia (native)
- Costa Rica (native)
- Cuba (native)
- Dominican Republic (native)
- Ecuador (native)
- El Salvador (native)
- Guatemala (native)
- Haiti (native)
- Honduras (native)
- Jamaica (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Nicaragua (native)
- Panamá (native)
- Peru (native)
- Puerto Rico (native)
- Trinidad-Tobago (native)
- Venezuela (native)
- Arizona (introduced)
- Bahamas (introduced)
- California (introduced)
- Jawa (introduced)
- Maryland (introduced)
- Taiwan (introduced)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Jul 2, 2022 by Jesse Jarvis (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 12, 2022 by Charl Gobetz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 1, 2022 by Eric KOENIG (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 16, 2022 by Felice Rao (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 2, 2022 by milton thomas-x (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Jan 16, 2022 by Margarita (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 1, 2022 by Eric KOENIG (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 3, 2022 by Johan Devos (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 18, 2021 by bill oconnor (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 14, 2021 by Mauricio León Carreño (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken May 20, 2022 by Jesse Jarvis (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 3, 2021 by erick cuevas (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 21, 2022 by Cristina Gaspar Marques (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 16, 2022 by Margarita (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 1, 2022 by Eric KOENIG (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3084023)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:323292-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Phytolacca icosandra L.)
Specifications
Growth habit: Forb/herb