A large North American herb of the genus Phytolacca (P.
   decandra), bearing dark purple juicy berries; -- called also garget,
   pigeon berry, pocan, and pokeweed. The root and berries have emetic and
   purgative properties, and are used in medicine. The young shoots are
   sometimes eaten as a substitute for asparagus, and the berries are said
   to be used in Europe to color wine.