Smilax hispida, commonly known as Bristly Greenbrier, is a native woody vine found in moist woodlands, thickets, and along streambanks throughout Illinois. It thrives in rich, well-drained soils and partial to light shade, often climbing or sprawling over shrubs and trees for support.
This vigorous vine features glossy, heart-shaped leaves and greenish stems covered in numerous stiff, black bristles—giving it its common name. Small, inconspicuous yellow-green flowers bloom in late spring to early summer, forming rounded clusters in the leaf axils. These are followed by shiny, dark blue to black berries in late summer and fall, which persist into winter and provide food for birds and other wildlife.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts,Smilax tamnoides is a valuable plant for natural woodland edges, wildlife corridors, and restoration projects. Though it can be aggressive in growth, it offers dense cover, nesting habitat, and year-round food sources for birds and small mammals. Its bristly stems also make it a natural deterrent along borders, and it plays an important role in supporting biodiversity in shaded or semi-shaded ecosystems.
Smilax hispida, commonly known as Bristly Greenbrier, is a native woody vine found in moist woodlands, thickets, and along streambanks throughout Illinois. It thrives in rich, well-drained soils and partial to light shade, often climbing or sprawling over shrubs and trees for support.
This vigorous vine features glossy, heart-shaped leaves and greenish stems covered in numerous stiff, black bristles—giving it its common name. Small, inconspicuous yellow-green flowers bloom in late spring to early summer, forming rounded clusters in the leaf axils. These are followed by shiny, dark blue to black berries in late summer and fall, which persist into winter and provide food for birds and other wildlife.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts,Smilax tamnoides is a valuable plant for natural woodland edges, wildlife corridors, and restoration projects. Though it can be aggressive in growth, it offers dense cover, nesting habitat, and year-round food sources for birds and small mammals. Its bristly stems also make it a natural deterrent along borders, and it plays an important role in supporting biodiversity in shaded or semi-shaded ecosystems.
Bloom: late spring to early summer
Habitats: moist to mesic woodlands; openings in wooded areas; powerline clearances in wooded areas; thickets; woodland borders
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist to mesic
Plant type (height): woody vine (10 to 20 feet)
Requirements: partial sun to light shade
Soil: fertile loam