Menispermum canadense

Moonseed’s name comes directly from its crescent moon shaped seed. We find it most often on the banks of rivers and in rich woods with light over-story or beneath oaks. The flowers are small, white, and delicate, hanging from underneath the plants foliage. However, it does seem to need a little sun to bloom regularly. Birds (Thrushes mostly) do feed on the fruit in the fall, but people should NOT.  They are mildly toxic. We have also seen it in gardens and disturbed areas acting as a ground cover. The leaves are the main interest for this plant, being that they are large and slightly cupped.  We have a couple outside our office, and they draw comments often. A ground cover or a vine, this plant is a soft touch in the garden.