Common Greenbrier
Smilax rotundifolia
native
Other Names:
Roundleaf Greenbrier, Bullbrier, Catbrier, Horsebrier, Carrion-flower
Common Greenbrier is a native vine found in most of Virginia. Some of it grows near the bridge at the front of Monticello Park. Numerous birds and animals eat the fruits, which are an important late winter and early spring food for wintering birds, including Northern Cardinals and White-throated Sparrows. It is a pioneer species whose prickly impenetrable branches create cover for birds and small mammals. Native Americans used the vines to make baskets, and they used the leaves to wrap tobacco.
Identification Tools
Illinois Wildflowers
Go Botany
North Carolina Extension Gardener
Virginia Tech Dendrology
Ranges
Glossy spring green leaves of Common Greenbrier in early May, freshly emerged from the overwintering green vines
Mature Common Greenbrier leaves
Common Greenbrier leaves
Thorny Common Greenbrier stem
Common Greenbrier leaves and flowers
Common Greenbrier flowers
Common Greenbrier flowers
Common Greenbrier flowers
Common Greenbrier leaves and berries
Common Greenbrier leaves and berries
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