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upright carrionflower

Scientific Name: Smilax ecirrata

Family: Smilacaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Vine, Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Smilax ecirrhata: Upright Carrionflower

Smilax ecirrhata, commonly known as the upright carrionflower, is a fascinating perennial plant belonging to the Greenbrier family (Smilacaceae). This species stands out from its relatives due to its unique growth habit and other distinctive features.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some related species are vines with tendrils, and some references describe the plant as having "wiry stems".
  • The plant produces clusters of dark blue fruit.

Considerations for Children

  • Some related species are vines with tendrils, and some references describe the plant as having "wiry stems".
  • The plant produces clusters of dark blue fruit.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Smilax ecirrhata
  • Family: Smilacaceae (Greenbrier family)
  • Synonyms: Smilax ecirrhata (Engelm. ex Kunth) S. Watson
  • Common Names: Upright carrionflower, Greenbriar, Upright Carrion-flower

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to Ontario (Canada) and the central United States.
  • Found in locations such as Red Oak Bottoms Wisconsin State Natural Area #523 Wood County and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • An unbranched herbaceous perennial, typically growing to a height of 1 to 3 feet.
  • Unlike most Smilax species, Smilax ecirrhata does not have a vining habit or tendrils.
  • Features clusters of greenish flowers that develop into clusters of dark blue fruit.
  • Leaves have short-pointed tips and cross-veins between the main veins.

Similar Species

  • Carrion Flower (Smilax lasioneura).
  • Climbing carrion-flower (Smilax herbacea), which has tendrils.

Resources and Further Information

  • iNaturalist.org
  • Discover Life
  • USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
  • Dave's Garden