This woody vine is found throughout North Carolina in the understory of bottomland forests. Though widespread, it is uncommon at best. Similar to Smilax rotundifolia, but with stems covered with thin prickles, giving it almost a hispid or bristly look.

Also known as Smilax tamnoides L.

Stokes Co., NC 6/14/09.

The distinctive thin straight prickles.

Stokes Co., NC 6/14/09.

Stokes Co., NC 6/14/09.

The leaves are thin, smooth, and glossy above and have deeply impressed main veins.

Stokes Co., NC 6/14/09.