Plant of the Month: November, 1999

by Russell Stevens

Carolina Snailseed
Cocculus carolinus

Characteristics: Carolina snailseed is a native, deciduous, perennial, usually herbaceous vine that is common on a variety of sites including bottomlands and uplands. It prefers rich soil and shaded areas and can reach to more than nine feet in length.

Its leaves are similar to those of greenbrier (Smilax bona-nox) but may vary considerably and, unlike greenbrier, it has no spines or tendrils. The fruit is bright red and matures in the fall. Other common names include coralberry, coralbead, Carolina moonseed, and red-berried moonseed.

Area of Importance: Throughout most of Oklahoma and Texas.

Attributes: Carolina snailseed fruit are eaten by many wildlife species. Bobwhite quail eat the seed, goats and cattle browse it, and it is one of deer's most preferred spring foods. Its presence should be maintained in managed wildlife habitats. Its bright red fall fruit make it a handsome plant.

I.D. Tip: Look for a vine that has no spines, that resembles greenbrier, and has bright red berries in late summer and early fall. The seed, upon close examination, is roughly snail-shaped, hence the common name.

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Hundreds of plants are identified in the Noble Foundation Plant Image Gallery.