Smilax aculeatissima Conran

Conran, J.G. (1986) Flora of Australia 46: 231. Type: Queensland, Johnstone R., Aug. 1916, H.G.Ladbrook; holo: BRI.

A slender vine not exceeding a stem diameter of 2 cm.

Branches and twigs clothed in short spines. Leaf blades about 7.5-13.7 x 3-5.7 cm, petioles about 0.7-1.5 cm long. Petioles terete in the section towards the apex but expanded, winged and conspicuously channelled on the upper surface towards the base. Leaves three to five-veined. Stipules attached to the petioles. Stipules often extended to form tendrils about 3-5 cm long.

Inflorescence consists of umbels on peduncles about 20-40 mm long. Flowers about 3-4 mm diam. on pedicels about 12-13 mm long. Outer tepals about 3 x 1.5 mm, reflexed. Inner tepals about 3 x 1 mm, reflexed. Stamens about 2 mm long, reflexed, pollen white.

Features not available.

Features not available.

Occurs in NEQ and CEQ. Altitudinal range from near sea level to 750 m. Grows in well developed lowland and upland rain forest. Appears to be confined to the Atherton Tablelands and the adjacent areas of lowland rain forest.