// SPECIES PROFILE · PERENNIAL · NATIVE

Downy carrionflower

Smilax pulverulenta

Downy carrionflower (Smilax pulverulenta) is a perennial in the — family. Native range includes AR, KS, MO. Hardy in zones 2b–9a. Mature size 38"–8'. Blooms Apr–Jun.

// QUICK FACTS

Family: —
Group: perennial
Native range: Native to 24 U.S. states, including AL, AR, DC, DE, GA, IL…
USDA hardiness: Zones 2b–9a
Mature size: 38"–8'
Sun: —
Water: —
Bloom: Apr–Jun
Wildlife value: Pollinator and wildlife support
Ecological role: native species profile

Downy carrionflower (Smilax pulverulenta) — *Smilax pulverulenta* — Downy carrionflower. Photo by Image shared by iNaturalist user: mjpapay via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0).

Field Notes

[ growing · ecology · siting · care ]

Downy carrionflower (Smilax pulverulenta) is a perennial in the — family. Native range includes AR, KS, MO. Hardy in zones 2b–9a. Mature size 38"–8'. Blooms Apr–Jun.

Why it's on this list: native species profile. Native-range data from the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (NPIN), cross-checked against iNaturalist observations. Part of Rooted Revival's regional native plant catalog — true natives for Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri and Kansas.

Companion Planting

[ guild · polyculture · cross-layer pairings ]

In the same native range, downy carrionflower pairs naturally with: Broadleaf Arrowhead (Sagittaria latifolia), Blue-Eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium angustifolium), Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa), Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis).