Smilax Vine (Green Briar): Identification and Edibility of Berries

Smilax Vine (Green Briar): Identification and Edibility of Berries

A gardener in Mission, Texas (south border) sought identification of a vine on a back fence with berries. They had searched databases without success.

Berry Plant 005

Berry Plant 010

Expert Identification

The vine is a Smilax species, also called green briar. Many species occur in the region, some with thorns, some without. Exact species is difficult due to cross-pollination. The expert suggested searching for Smilax smallii (Jackson vine), which rarely has thorns except at the base.