Saw greenbrier
Smilax bona-nox · Smilacaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around saw greenbrier and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Family
- Smilacaceae
- Type
- Woody climber
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- Spring to early summer
- Height
- Up to 5-6 m
- Hardiness
- Zones 8-11 (subtropical to tropical climate)
- Growth
- Moderate to fast
- Origin
- United States (South-East)
Care
Light exposure
Smilax bona-nox thrives in partial sun or light shade and isn't fussy about light conditions. A bright location encourages better flowering. Avoid scorching sun in very hot climates.
Watering
Keep the soil regularly moist during active growth, especially in the first years. Reduce watering in winter. Once established, it tolerates slightly drier soil.
Soil and growing medium
Prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Adapts to various soil types (loamy, sandy). Avoid chronic waterlogging which could rot the roots.
Pruning and training
Prune lightly after flowering to manage growth and encourage branching. Guide stems onto a support (trellis, pergola). Remove dead wood or tangled branches.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring and early summer to support growth. Reduce or stop in fall-winter. Organic mulch promotes moisture retention and gradually nourishes the soil.
Diseases and pests
Generally robust, but watch for mealybugs and spider mites in hot, dry climates. Good air circulation and dry foliage limit fungal risks. Treat preventively if needed with gentle methods.
Did you know?
Smilax bona-nox, nicknamed "greenbrier" or "catbrier" in English, produces black berries highly prized by birds and local wildlife. Its species name "bona-nox" means "good night" in Latin, a poetic reference to its often fragrant flowers that bloom in the evening. This climber has long been used by traditional populations of the American South-East for its medicinal properties.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.