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Carolina coralbead

Scientific Name: Cocculus carolinus

Family: Menispermaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Vine

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Carolina Moonseed (Cocculus carolinus)

The Carolina Moonseed, scientifically known as Cocculus carolinus, is a vigorous vine found in the southeastern United States. Its rapid growth and tendency to spread have led some to consider it a nuisance, akin to Kudzu.

Common Names

  • Carolina Moonseed
  • Carolina Snailseed
  • Red-berried Moonseed
  • Coral-bead
  • Coral-seed
  • Coral Vine
  • Wild Sarsaparilla

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Cocculus carolinus (L.) DC.
  • Family: Menispermaceae (Moonseed Family)
  • Synonyms: Snail-seed, Carolina Coral-bead, Redberry Moonseed, Carolina Red Berried Moonseed

Considerations for Pets

  • The plant produces bright red berries (coral-colored) when ripe.

Considerations for Children

  • The plant produces bright red berries (coral-colored) when ripe.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Most common in the southern Coastal Plain and Piedmont regions of the United States.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Deciduous, woody vine that climbs by twining.
  • Dark green, glossy leaves.

Ecological Role

  • Some consider it invasive due to its rapid growth.

Quirky Facts

  • The name "Moonseed" comes from the perceived resemblance of the seeds to the moon.

Ornamental Use

  • Pruning until late winter or early spring is recommended to preserve the ornamental beaded fruits.

Further Information

  • Cocculus carolinus on Wikipedia