Smilax riparia, a
perennial vine, inhabits fields and mountains. Leaves are alternate,
5-15cm in length, ovate-like oblong, with 5-7 veins, somewhat thick
and glossy. Petioles measure 1-2.5cm in length, with bases with
tendrils, a variation of stipules with which twine around. Axils
give umbels and set small green-yellow flowers; male flowers'
perianth lobes are 4-5cm long, lanceolate, and somewhat small, while
females' ones are oblong and small. Sap fruit is spherical, about
1cm across, and matures black. Bloom time: July-August. |