Naturally Speaking
Share
Tweet
Jerry Davis
Cat briar vines are often covered with thousands of prickles.
A plant commonly called carrion flower cannot be a pleasant thought unless the smell of rotting flesh is what is desired. After the greenish ball of tiny flowers fades, it may still be unpleasant to examine and admire some members of green briar (also greenbrier, or cat briar). Every inch of the vine stems are covered with hundreds of prickles, commonly called thorns or spines.
A few species and individuals are without these adornments, however. Some species are annuals, others perennials. Some climb using tendrils, others do not.
Still, with these notable negatives, it's interesting to stand back and admire the workmanship of growing up to 10 feet tall and presumably making itself nearly impossible to get close to.
Individuals who collect dried plant parts and pods for winter decoration have apparently shown some sympathy for this standoffish plant and bring it indoors, along with attached its blue-black berries. With this they are able to fashion oriental arrangements from the dried fruits and other parts.
