Smilax herbacea aka Carrion Flower

Smilax herbacea is a vine known as carrion flower. Its native range covers eastern Canada and the United States. It extends south to Georgia and Alabama. It grows in damp woods, thickets, meadows, and wooded banks. The plant climbs with tendrils and can also stand upright. Sources describe variation in both leaf shape and growth form. Its thornless stems help set it apart from other smilax species.

The smooth stems range from pale green to purple. They have small specks and may show a waxy coating. The leaves grow in an alternate pattern along the stems. Each leaf has a smooth edge and parallel veins. Shapes range from oval to broad, pointed forms. The upper surface is smooth, glossy, and medium green. The pale green underside has no hairs. Leaves measure about 0.25–0.5 feet [0.08–0.15 metres] long.

Small green or yellow-green flowers form round clusters called umbels. Each cluster holds 20 to 120 flowers on fine stalks. In North Carolina, bloom runs from May to June. The flowers smell of decay and draw carrion flies. These insects carry pollen between the flowers. Male and female flowers grow on separate plants. Both sexes must grow together for plants to set seed. Long stalks hold clusters of dark blue to black berries. In North Carolina, fruit appears from August to October. Grouse, wild turkeys, and songbirds eat the berries. Deer and rabbits browse the leaves.

This vine accepts sun, partial shade, or deep shade. It grows in clay, loam, sand, and shallow rocky soils. It also accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soil. Moist soil with good drainage suits it best. It tolerates wet ground and some dry spells. North Carolina State lists USDA zones 4 through 8. Plants For A Future reports hardiness near −20°C. It can climb through shrubs or trees and cover stumps. Natural areas and edible gardens offer places for it. Its foul flower smell can be a drawback. Its high flammability makes it unsuitable close to homes.

Leaves and young shoots can serve as cooked vegetables. Use fruit for food only when it is fully ripe. Cooked roots can supply flour or a gelatine substitute. Sources record folk uses for fruit, leaves, and roots. These reports do not establish that the treatments work. ASPCA lists it as non-toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.