Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Smilacaceae

Genus:

Smilax

Species:

Smilax pumila

USDA Symbol:

SMPU

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Shrub , Subshrub , Vine

Height:

30 cm

Light Requirements:

Part Shade

Drought Tolerance:

Low

Bloom Months:

apr,may

Bloom Colors:

greenish-white

Ground Cover:

Yes

Wildlife Benefits

Butterflies & Moths:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, small mammals

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:

prefers organic-rich environments

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 60–90 days

Scarification:

Seed coat scarification required before sowing

Germination Time:

30–60 days

Notes:

Seeds require scarification followed by cold stratification for germination.