Greenbrier

 

 

Ecological Considerations:

Smilax rotundifolia is a woody vine that grows up to twenty feet long and climbs trees and other vegetation or surfaces. Many of its stems, though not all, have sharp black-tipped stout thorns that extend up to 1/3 inch occurring along the stems. Its glossy green circular or heart-shaped leaves are 2-6 inches long and 2 – 5 1/2 inches wide. It grows well in partial sun and damp to dry-mesic environments and favors hilly disturbed areas with sandy or rocky soils. It is frequently found along roadsides, clearings and woods. It sometimes forms dense impenetrable thickets. This plant has a shallow root system.

Although Greenbrier is a native species to our area, because of its tendency to form very dense thickets of vines covered with stout shop thorns, and its capacity to choke out other species, Greenbrier is undesirable.

Propagation Mechanisms:

Greenbrier flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and extends for about 2 weeks. The berries that follow are blue-black and about 1/4 inch across with a whitish bloom when they mature in late summer or fall. Each fleshy berry has about 3 seeds within. These seeds may be dormant in the soil for several years. Their germination is enhanced by exposure to full sun.

Management Stategies:

Mow to knock back the Greenbrier that overtakes fields. Then Manage the greenbrier re-sprout with loppers and/or continue to mow.

Associated Ecological Benefits:

Flowering Greenbrier attracts a variety of insects including bees. Beetles and aphids feed on its foliage. Game birds and songbirds feed on its berries as do raccoons, squirrels, and opossums. Beaver, rabbits and white-tailed deer feed on its stems and leaves and young shoots. In addition, dense stands of Greenbrier provide cover and for birds and small animals.

Lessons Learned:

Additional photos: