Blue Ridge Carrion Flower 350 Seeds Smilax lasioneura

Smilax lasioneura, commonly known as, is a species of flowering vine native to the eastern United States. Here are some key features and characteristics:

Appearance: This perennial vine typically grows along the ground or climbs using tendrils. It has heart-shaped leaves that are glossy green and may have a bluish tint. The stems are often thorny.

Flowers: Smilax lasioneura produces small greenish-white flowers in clusters. The flowers are not particularly showy but are followed by the development of berries.

Berries: After flowering, the vine produces clusters of small, round, bluish-black berries. These berries are not typically consumed by humans but are eaten by birds and other wildlife.

Habitat: Blue Ridge Carrion Flower is commonly found in moist woodlands, thickets, and along stream banks in its native range. It prefers rich, well-drained soil and partial to full shade.

Ecological Importance: Like other species of Smilax, S. lasioneura provides habitat and food for wildlife. The berries are an important food source for birds, while the dense foliage offers shelter for small animals.

Cultural Uses: Historically, various parts of Smilax species have been used for medicinal purposes by indigenous peoples. However, the Blue Ridge Carrion Flower is not as commonly utilized in traditional medicine as some other species of Smilax.

Garden Uses: While not as widely cultivated as some other ornamental vines, Smilax lasioneura can be grown in gardens where its natural habitat conditions are replicated. It can be useful for providing ground cover in shaded areas or for naturalizing in woodland gardens.

Growing Instructions for the Blue Ridge Carrion Flower 

The seeds have a period of dormancy. They can be planted outdoors in the fall or winter for spring germination or they can be cold stratified to simulate winter conditions and to break their dormancy at any time of the year.

1. Soak the seeds in water for several hours.
2. Cold stratify the seeds for 12 weeks.
3. Put a mixture of potting soil and sand or perlite into a pot with drainage holes in the base. The soil should be moist and well-drained.
4. Sow the seeds on the soil.
5. Cover the seeds with a layer of soil that is 0.5 inches thick.
6. Water the seeds. Keep the soil moist but not wet.
7. When the plants are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted.