Blue Ridge Carrionflower
Smilax lasioneura
Last reviewed: June 2026
Blue Ridge Carrionflower (Smilax lasioneura) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
60"–180" H × 24"–120" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CO, FL and 23 more states
Pollinators
flies, beetles
Blue ridge carrionflower is a climbing vine that grows 5-15 feet tall with heart-shaped leaves and clusters of small greenish flowers in late spring. This native vine dies back to the ground each winter and regrows from its root system. It produces dark blue berries in late summer that are valuable food for birds.
In an HOA neighborhood
Blue Ridge Carrionflower takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Looks completely dead and messy in winter
- Can appear wild and uncontrolled during growing season
- May be confused with invasive vines by HOA boards
Wildlife value
The flowers attract flies and beetles for pollination, while the berries provide important food for songbirds. The dense foliage offers nesting sites and cover for small birds.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Blue Ridge Carrionflower fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.