Smilacaceae

1 gen., temp. and trop.

Smilax L.

7 species in Aust. (3 endemic); Qld, NSW, Vic., NT, WA

Branched, shrubby, dioecious climbers. Leaves alternate, with reticulate venation and longitudinal veins, broad-lanceolate to ovate, coriaceous; stipular tendrils usually present at base of each leaf. Flowers unisexual, in axillary umbels. Perianth segments free, greenish white, spreading. Anthers oblong. Berry black, globular, with 1–3 hard glossy seeds.