How to identify Rough bindweed (Smilax glabra)

How to identify Rough bindweed (Smilax glabra)

Rough bindweed is a climbing or scrambling vine with woody stems that can reach lengths up to 10 feet (3 meters). The leaves are broadly ovate, somewhat glossy, and measure around 2-6 inches (5-15 cm) in length. Each leaf is borne on a petiole and has prominent venation. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers, which are typically greenish to yellowish. It also bears globular berries that turn black when ripe, each berry containing one to three seeds.

Lifespan: Perennial

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Rough bindweed

Woody stem can reach 10 feet (3 meters).

Elliptic or ovate-lanceolate leaves, smooth, glossy, with prominent veins.

Striking blue-black berries, oblate with white powdery texture, 0.24-0.39 inches (6-10 mm).

Detailed Traits of Rough bindweed

Leaf Features

The leaves of rough bindweed are elliptic- or ovate-lanceolate, typically measuring 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) in length and 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) in width. They display a smooth, glossy surface with a prominent central vein and several lateral veins running parallel. The leaf edges are entire, without serration. The deep green leaves taper to a pointed tip and are attached to the stem with slender petioles measuring about 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) long.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

The flowers of rough bindweed vary between male and female. Male flowers feature greenish-white calyx and corolla, slightly 6-angled, with barely open, broadly obovate-orbicular outer tepals. Female flowers display entire-margin inner tepals and possess staminodes. Both types of flowers bloom in small clusters, emitting a subtle scent. Their size ranges from 0.2 to 0.4 inches (5 to 10 mm) in diameter. Blooming typically occurs from late spring to early summer.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stem of rough bindweed is branched, terete, and woody, exhibiting a smooth texture. It is well-developed with tendrils that facilitate climbing. Typically, the stem can vary in thickness, providing structural support. Its surface is smooth, devoid of spines or trichomes. The branching pattern is essential for its climbing habit, and the tendrils are a notable feature for identification, enabling it to secure itself to various structures in its environment. Measurements generally depend on growth conditions.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of rough bindweed is a striking blue-black berry, each measuring about 0.24--0.39 inches (6--10 mm) in diameter. These berries possess a unique, white powdery or glaucous texture that lightly coats their surface. Typically oblate in shape, the fruit's coloration and distinctive bloom aid in its identification. While minute in size, the berries are visually appealing and provide a contrast against the foliage of rough bindweed.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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