Smilax auriculata Walt. - Earleaf Greenbrier
Family - Smilacaceae
Stems:
Leaves:
Inflorescence:
Flowers:
Flowering - April - July.
Habitat - Sandhills, flatwoods, thickets.
Origin - Native to North America.
Other information - This species can be found in extreme southern Alabama. The plant can be identified by its habitat, tough stems, auriculate leaves, short peduncles, and black fruits. The leaves have thickened margins.
The genus name Smilax derives from the Greek "smila(x)" meaning "a yew, oak, or bindweed."
The species name auriculata derives from the Latin "aur(icul)" meaning "an ear" referring to the lobes at the base of the leaves.
Alabama Distribution:
Photographs taken in Winter Haven, FL., 4-16-05.