They bear their flowers in pendulous racemes, a drooping stalk with numerous individual flowers lining it. When the flower buds are just emerging along the raceme, this might resemble a catkin.

Its arching racemes can reach 45cm (18in) long. The leaves are also 45cm (18in) in length, with up to 21 leaflets, and take on red tints in winter. In time, it makes a large, striking shrub.

Sure it's poisonous and invasive, but to me, pokeweed is the perfect plant for a wildlife garden. Here's why I love this ...