Blue Ridge Carrionflower
Smilax lasioneura
Last reviewed: June 2026
Smilax lasioneura (Blue Ridge Carrionflower) is a native vine found across much of the eastern and central United States. It blooms in May and June, attracting flies and beetles as pollinators.
Blue Ridge Carrionflower (Smilax lasioneura) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), 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.
Growing Blue Ridge Carrionflower
Grow Blue Ridge Carrionflower in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 60 to 180 inches tall and spread 24 to 120 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
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.
Common questions
- Where does Blue Ridge Carrionflower naturally grow?
- Smilax lasioneura is native to a wide range of states from the Southeast through the Great Plains and upper Midwest, including Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, and many others.
- When does Blue Ridge Carrionflower bloom?
- This native vine produces flowers during May and June, which are pollinated primarily by flies and beetles rather than bees or butterflies.
- What growing conditions does Smilax lasioneura prefer?
- Blue Ridge Carrionflower grows well in partial shade conditions with medium moisture levels, making it suitable for woodland edges and naturalized areas.
- Is Blue Ridge Carrionflower toxic to dogs?
- Blue Ridge Carrionflower is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Blue Ridge Carrionflower toxic to cats?
- Blue Ridge Carrionflower is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Blue Ridge Carrionflower HOA-friendly?
- Blue Ridge Carrionflower takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Blue Ridge Carrionflower? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz