Poke Plant
Early in the spring, the young green stalks of the pokeberry plant, (when they are still mild and tender, and have not yet acquired a reddish tinge or a strong unpleasant taste,) are generally much liked as a vegetable, and are by many persons considered equal to asparagus. They are brought in bundles to Philadelphia market. Wash and drain them, and put them on to boil in a pot of cold water. When quite tender all through they are done. Dish them in the manner of asparagus, laid on a toast dipped for a minute in hot water, and then buttered.
You may pour a very little drawn or melted butter over the poke.