Roundleaf greenbrier (Smilax rotundifolia)

Roundleaf greenbrier

Also known as: Common catbriar

Roundleaf greenbrier (Smilax rotundifolia) is a common and visually noticeable vine that grows throughout woodlands and forests in the eastern United States and Canada. Roundleaf greenbrier is edible and cooked similarly to asparagus and spinach, when cooked. The vine grows berries which are eaten by deer, birds, and rabbits.

Scientific classification

Species

Roundleaf greenbrier (Smilax rotundifolia)

Lilies, supplejacks and allies

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Weeds

Weed or not

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

61 cm to 91 cm

Plant Height

3.5 m to 6 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Black, Blue

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green, White, Gold

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

Images of Roundleaf greenbrier

Attributes of Roundleaf greenbrier

Growth Rate

In summer, roundleaf greenbrier exhibits a slow growth pattern, steadily developing its dense, thorny leaves over the season. This cautious progression preserves the plant's energy, affecting the spread of its robust stems and fostering hardiness. It's an intriguing adaptation to its typically moist and shady habitats, subtly varying in different seasons but most prominent in summer. Such understated growth ensures robustness and survival, aiding the plant to thrive despite challenging conditions.

Distribution of Roundleaf greenbrier

Distribution Map

Roundleaf greenbrier can be found growing densely in most forests across its native central and eastern North America. This plant grows aggressively and is listed as a weed on the United States WSSA composite list of weeds.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Moist to dryish thickets and woods

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Loveliness & Constancy

Name Story

Roundleaf greenbrier: This plant is a crawling vine that will latch on to other plants and crawls will small tendrils. This evergreen plant is featured with smooth circle to heart-shaped leaves. In contrast to the texture of the leaves, the vines are covered with hard thorns like roses. Hence, it is called roundleaf greenbrier.

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Quickly Identify Roundleaf greenbrier

Round-shaped leaves, 2-5 inches (5-13 cm) long, with darker upper surfaces and lighter undersides.

Sharp 4-angled stem, 0.2 to 0.4 inches (0.5 to 1 cm) thick, covered in scattered stiff prickles.

Greenish-white flowers in umbels of 3-20, 1/4 inch (6 mm) long, with 6 yellowish-green tepals.

Blue-black berries, 0.3 inches (7-8 mm) in diameter, each containing 1-3 seeds.

Slender trunk reaching up to 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter, with initially smooth bark transitioning to brown.

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Care Guide for Roundleaf greenbrier

Every 3 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Roundleaf greenbrier thrives in woodland settings and prefers drier conditions, requiring infrequent watering—approximately once every three weeks. It effectively regulates its water needs seasonally and is typically grown outdoors, benefiting from natural rainfall without the need for supplemental irrigation.

Fertilize: Fertilize roundleaf greenbrier seasonally using balanced nutrition fertilizers to promote growth, applying high-nitrogen fertilizers every 6-8 weeks during active growth in spring and summer. Reduce fertilization in dormancy. Water soil before application, ensuring even distribution to prevent root burn, and adjust quantities based on roundleaf greenbrier's size and soil fertility.

Pruning: Roundleaf greenbrier, known for its thorny vines and heart-shaped leaves, thrives with early spring pruning. Trim dead stems and manage growth to improve air circulation. Regular pruning enhances shape, controls spread, and encourages healthier growth while reducing pests. Refer to horticultural guidelines for specific techniques.

Propagation: Roundleaf greenbrier can be propagated via softwood cuttings in spring or summer, and through compound/serpentine layering. Success indicators include new growth or roots. Maintain moisture and a warm, bright environment for optimal results.

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Images of Roundleaf greenbrier

Attributes of Roundleaf greenbrier

Distribution of Roundleaf greenbrier

Culture

Quickly Identify Roundleaf greenbrier

Care Guide for Roundleaf greenbrier

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