Skip to content
← Plant Database

Carolina Snailseed

Nephroia carolina

Also listed as Cocculus carolinus, Androphylax scandens

Also known as Carolina Moonseed, Red-berried Moonseed, Coralbead

vine⛅ part shade💧💧 moderate water❄ Hardy: Zone 5a – Zone 9b

Climate Match for your location

See how well Carolina Snailseed grows in your area.

Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.

A deciduous climbing vine native to the southeastern United States, Carolina snailseed produces small greenish flowers followed by distinctive snail-shaped fruits. It is best suited for woodland gardens and naturalized areas where it can scramble over shrubs and trees.

Why grow it

Carolina snailseed offers a native alternative to non-native climbing vines for southeastern woodland gardens, with the advantage of being well-adapted to local humidity and soil conditions. Its modest growth habit and preference for scrambling rather than vigorous twining makes it easier to manage than some ornamental vines. The distinctive snail-shaped fruits provide late-season interest and wildlife value in naturalized settings.

Watch out for

This vine performs best with consistent moisture during establishment and benefits from afternoon shade in warmer portions of its range. Young plants may take a season or two to establish a strong root system before putting on substantial growth, so patience is needed when establishing new plantings.

Overview

Form
Climbing
Growth Rate
moderate
Size
6–12′ tall
Dormancy
deciduous
Family
Menispermaceae
Wildlife habitat & food

Native to the United States

Native Range

Southeastern United States

Native to: Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia

Seasonality

Bloom Season

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Season of Interest

SpringSummerFall

Similar climbers you might consider:

Enter your ZIP code to see top native species and strong climate fits for you.

Companion Planting

Plants well with