Round-leaved greenbrier
Smilax rotundifolia · Smilacaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around round-leaved greenbrier and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous to semi-evergreen depending on climate
- Flowering
- Spring (April-May), inconspicuous greenish flowers
- Adult size
- Up to 3-4 m tall when climbing
- Growth
- Moderate to vigorous
- Hardiness
- Hardy down to approximately -15 °C
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Soil type
- Well-draining, humus-rich, tolerant
- Habit
- Herbaceous climber with thorny stems
Care
Sunlight
Prefer a partly shaded to sunny location. The plant adapts well to partially shaded areas beneath trees. Avoid very dry, full midday sun exposures if the soil cannot be kept moist.
Watering
Water regularly during the first year to promote root establishment. Once established, the plant tolerates dry periods well thanks to its deep root system. Keep the soil slightly moist during active growth periods.
Soil and planting
Plant in soil rich in organic matter, well-draining and slightly acidic to neutral. Enrich the planting hole with compost or peat. The plant appreciates fresh soil but without waterlogging.
Pruning and training
Prune lightly in spring to remove dead or tangled stems. Guide young shoots onto a support or trellis. Be careful of thorns on the stems: wear protective gloves when handling.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring when growth resumes. One annual application is sufficient for an established plant. Avoid excessive nitrogen which would promote foliage at the expense of fruiting.
Health and pests
The plant is generally robust and rarely subject to disease. Watch for spider mites in hot, dry climates. Yellowing or spotted foliage may indicate excessive moisture or poor drainage.
Did you know?
Smilax rotundifolia bears the folk names 'greenbrier' or 'catbrier' in North America. Its dark blue fruits, which appear in autumn, were long used by indigenous peoples and early settlers to make a tonic beverage. Its thorny stems historically served as natural obstacles in traditional fencing.
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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- Cat greenbrierSmilax glauca
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.