This native perennial is found in oak woodlands and has an upright growth habit, standing about two feet tall. Leaves are alternate (A) along the stem and sometimes whorled at the top, with tendrils sometimes occurring at the upper leaves. However, these tendrils are usually absent. Flowering in May through June, Smilax ecirrhata typically has a few small, round clusters of green flowers that usually occur below the leafy part of the stem or at leaf axils. Smilax ecirrhata has male and female flowers on separate plants (dioecious). Female flowers feature a round, green ovary with three styles at the top (B). Male flowers have six whitish stamens (C). Its fruits are clusters of berries, changing from green to dark blue as they ripen (D).