Canada Moonseed

Botanical Name: Menispermum canadense

Anishanaabe Name: bima’ kwit wa’bigons  

Height: woody vine to about 3 m

Season of bloom: Early summer, but not showy.

Growing Conditions: Part shade; moist, sweet soil.

Wildlife benefits: Female plants have clusters of purple-black fruit in autumn. According to Illinois Wildflowers, the fruit are eaten by woodland birds: Cedar Waxwing, Brown Thrasher, Hermit Thrush, Swainson’s Thrush, American Robin, and Eastern Towhee.

From Ottawa Valley or eastern Ontario sources: Yes

Remarks: The seeds within the fruits reportedly contain psychotropic compounds.

Similar species: Sometimes confused with Riverbank Grape. Canada Moonseed fruits are NOT edible. Because of the possibility of confusion, this vine should not be planted near areas used by children. It is, nevertheless, an attractive and useful vine for wildlife habitat.

For information on availability or to return to the list of plants: Plants.