Cocculus carolinus, commonly known as Carolina moonseed or red-berried moonseed, is a vigorous, deciduous woody vine native to the southeastern and south-central United States, often found climbing over fences, shrubs, and trees in woodlands, thickets, and along stream banks. Belonging to the moonseed family (Menispermaceae), this twining vine can reach lengths of up to 20 feet or more, using its slender stems to climb and sprawl across surrounding vegetation. The leaves are alternate, broadly ovate to heart-shaped, with smooth or slightly lobed edges and a bright green color that provides dense summer cover. In late spring to early summer, the plant produces clusters of small, greenish-white flowers that, while not showy, attract pollinators such as bees and flies. These blossoms give way to striking clusters of glossy red berries in late summer and fall, which persist into winter and provide visual interest as well as food for birds and other wildlife. Each berry contains a single seed shaped like a coiled snail shell, giving rise to the common name “snailseed.” Carolina snailseed thrives in moist, well-drained soils but is adaptable to drier, rocky conditions and partial shade to full sun. Although it spreads readily by both seed and underground rhizomes, sometimes behaving aggressively in favorable habitats, it remains a valuable native vine for erosion control and wildlife support. The plant’s combination of lush foliage, ornamental berries, and ecological importance makes Cocculus carolinus a distinctive and resilient component of the southern woodland and riparian ecosystems.