Coral Greenbrier
Smilax walteri
Last reviewed: June 2026
Coral Greenbrier (Smilax walteri) 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.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Coral Greenbrier as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
36"–240" H × 24"–120" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 9 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Coral greenbrier is a native vine that can climb 3-20 feet on fences, trellises, or other support structures. It produces small white flowers in spring and distinctive coral-red berries in fall, with heart-shaped leaves that turn yellow before dropping in winter.
In an HOA neighborhood
Coral Greenbrier 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.
- Has thorns that can be problematic near walkways
- Can spread aggressively and look uncontrolled
- Dormant winter appearance may look unkempt to neighbors
Wildlife value
The spring flowers attract bees and beetles, while the bright red berries are eaten by songbirds and game birds. This vine provides nesting sites and cover for small wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Coral Greenbrier need?
- Coral Greenbrier grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Coral Greenbrier bloom?
- Coral Greenbrier blooms in April and May.
- Where is Coral Greenbrier native?
- Coral Greenbrier (Smilax walteri) is native to AL, AR, DE, FL and 9 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Coral Greenbrier toxic to dogs?
- Coral Greenbrier is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Coral Greenbrier toxic to cats?
- Coral Greenbrier is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Coral Greenbrier toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Coral Greenbrier as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Coral Greenbrier attract?
- Coral Greenbrier draws bees and beetles.
- Is Coral Greenbrier HOA-friendly?
- Coral Greenbrier 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 Coral Greenbrier? 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