common greenbrier Smilacaceae Smilax rotundifolia

Leaf:Alternate, simple, rounded to cordate, 2 to 5 inches long, parallel veined, entire margins, shiny green above, paler below.
Flower:Species is monoecious; small light yellow-green, borne in small round clusters in late spring.
Fruit:Dark blue to black berries, borne in clusters, often covered with a powdery, waxy bloom; maturing in late summer and persist over winter.
Twig:Stout, green, usually sharply 4-angled with many scattered, stiff prickles, climbs with tendrils; very tough and stiff but new spring sprouts are tender and edible.
Bark:Remaining green for a long period of time, turning brown on old stems.
Form:Most often a climbing vine, but may also form a small, tangled bush.

Notes: