Smilax pumila Walt. - Sarsparilla Vine
Family - Smilacaceae
Stems:
Leaves:
Abaxial leaf surface.
Inflorescence:
N/A
Flowers:
Flowering - October - December.
Habitat - Sandy woods, maritime forets.
Origin - Native to North America.
Other information - This species can be found mainly in the southern half of Alabama. The plant can be identified by its late flowering season, tomentose stems and abaxial leaf surfaces, and bright red fruits. This is one of the few species of Alabama Smilax which has no spines.
The genus name Smilax derives from the Greek "smila(x)" meaning "a yew, oak, or bindweed."
The species epithet pumila derives from the Latin "pumil(o)" meaning "a dwarf" referring to the low-growing habit of this species.
Alabama Distribution:
Photographs taken off County Road 200, Lee County, AL., 3-2-06, and at Coon Creek, Tallapoosa County, AL., 10-18-06.