earleaf greenbrier, Smilax auriculata

In all that tromping around in West Virginia wilds as a grade schooler, greenbriers were just a nuisance. Can't remember ever noticing a single flower. Turns out they're not very noticeable. But I bet if I had known Indians knew how to make jello from the roots, I would have paid more attention. These one inch balls are pistillate flowers. Anyway, to atone for that early neglect, here are some greenbrier flowers. Earleaf greenbrier scrambles over other plants in AL, AR, FL, GA, LA, MS, SC, and TN. Polk Co FL, 3/16/16.