Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Smilacaceae

Genus:

Smilax

Species:

Smilax melastomifolia

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Shrub , Vine

Height:

8-12 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

jan, feb, mar, apr, may, jun

Bloom Colors:

White, Green

Evergreen Shrub:

Yes

Native Range

United States: Hawaii

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rich, well-drained loamy soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

native to Hawaiian forests, prefers organic matter