Canada Moonseed

Native distribution

Native to the Finger Lakes Region

Cultivation

An 8-20' long woody vine (liana) with infrequent yellow-green flowers and blue-black drupes born on female plants.
Light: light shade to part sun
Moisture and Soil: medium to moist fertile soil

Propagation

Seed Treatment and Storage: usually propagated by division; dioecious - needs male & female plants for seed

Biocultural value

The Delaware applied a salve containing Canada moonseed to chronic sores, while the Cherokee used the plant as a remedy for skin diseases, weak stomachs, and sickness in women.

Wildlife value

Canada moonseed flowers are likely pollinated by small bees and flies. The caterpillars of the moonseed moth (Plusiodonta compressipalpis) sever the leaves and feed on them after they become dry, while the larvae of a long-horned beetle, Hyperplatys aspersa, bore underneath the bark. The fruit are eaten by several woodland bird species.

Poisonous

yes

Poisonous description

Moonseed contains the toxin dauricine. Children may mistake the fruit for grapes and become poisoned. Its vining habit makes it less likely to be eaten by livestock, but cases have been reported in goats.

Location

Mundy Wildflower Garden, Coy Glen, Ringwood Ponds

Status

L2|S5|G5