Smilax Bona-Nox
Contents
Description
Smilax Bona-Nox, commonly known as catbrier or saw greenbrier, is a perennial, evergreen vine that belongs to the Smilacaceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States and can be found growing in thickets, forests, and along roadsides. The plant has a woody stem and produces tendrils that allow it to climb up trees and other structures. It can grow up to 30 feet long and has a spread of 6 to 12 feet. The leaves are dark green and glossy, and the plant produces small, greenish-white flowers in the spring and summer. The fruit is a blue-black berry that is edible but not commonly consumed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Smilacaceae |
| Genus | Smilax |
Appearance
The leaves of Smilax Bona-Nox are alternate, simple, and ovate in shape. They are 2 to 4 inches long and have a pointed tip. The leaf margins are smooth, and the base is rounded. The stems are woody, green, and have prickles that can cause skin irritation. The plant produces small greenish-white flowers that grow in clusters. The flowers have six petals and are less than 1/4 inch in length. The fruit is a blue-black berry that is 1/4 to 1/2 inch in diameter.
Care Guide
Smilax Bona-Nox prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. It can tolerate full sun but requires regular watering during periods of drought. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. The hardiness zones for this plant are 7 through 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Smilax Bona-Nox is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and scale insects. It may also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot.
Habitat
Smilax Bona-Nox can be found growing in thickets, forests, and along roadsides. It is native to the southeastern United States and can be found from Virginia to Florida and as far west as Texas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Smilax Bona-Nox poisonous?
A: No, the plant is not poisonous. However, the prickles on the stems can cause skin irritation.
Q: Can Smilax Bona-Nox be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as it has adequate drainage and is provided with the right growing conditions.
Q: Does Smilax Bona-Nox have any medicinal uses?
A: Yes, the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including arthritis and skin conditions.
Q: Does Smilax Bona-Nox attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the plant is a food source for birds and small mammals.
Related Plants
- Smilax herbacea
- Smilax rotundifolia
- Smilax glabra
References
- “Smilax bonanox.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 18, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282747&isprofile=0&
- “Smilax bonanox.” Plant Database. Accessed October 18, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SMBO4
- “Smilax bonanox.” Floridata. Accessed October 18, 2021. https://floridata.com/Plants/Smilacaceae/Smilax%20bonanox/1253
