Cocculus carolinus
As promised, here are photos and information about the red-berried vine we saw the same day as the Virginia Creeper. I've since learned, thanks to Harvey Cotton, Director of the Huntsville Botanical Garden, this is Carolina Moonseed, Snailseed or Coralbeads. Cocculus carolinus.
This vine didn't have lovely fall coloration, but our colors here were only beginning to turn when these shots were taken. However, amid the green leaves these vivid red berries shone in the sunlight like christmas lights on a tree. Carolina Moonseed is a deciduous vine native to the Southeast. It's easily grown in full sun to part shade and is tolerant of a wide range of soils and growing conditions.
The berries are not toxic to humans, but they are bitter and cause a tummy ache. Birds love the fruit, especially Northern Cardinals, White-throated Sparrows and Mockingbirds.
Cocculus carolinus means "little berry from Carolina," which I find charming. Commonly called Snailseed here, you can see why in this photo from Hilton Pond, where you can also link to read more about this beautiful vine.
I plead
For flowers, smiling fairies of the ground;
For birds, on wings and breezes skyward bound;
For trees, the lofty spires of hills we roam;
For beasts, still persecuted in their forest home.
(unknown)
