Mystery Stalk with Substantial Trunk in Western New York

While mowing around a late brother's property in Western New York, a person found a 2.5-foot tall plant with a very substantial trunk (not a typical stem) and white-striped leaves. They want to know if it's a weed, poisonous, or something else.

Expert Response: Identification from a single top-down photo is difficult. The white stripes on leaves could indicate variegation or a specific species. Plants are classified by flower structure, which isn't visible here. Take a sample (including a section of the trunk and leaves) and photos of the whole plant and its growing site to a local garden center in Western New York. They can provide a reliable ID and advise on any toxicity or invasiveness concerns.