The stem anatomy and pattern of secondary growth in Ungulipetalum filipendulum (Mart.) Moldenke, Cissampelos andromorpha DC., Disciphania hernandia (Vell.) Barneby, Odontocarya vitis (Vell.) J.M.A. Braga, and O. tamoides (DC.) Miers are described for the first time. Their morphology shares features of wood anatomy in common with other Menispermaceae, highlighted by wide rays, pitted tyloses and enlarged vessel pits near the perforation plates. However, unlike other members of Menispermaceae with successive cambia, a single vascular cambium remained functional and showed normal secondary growth. Other characteristics distinguish them from species having stems with successive cambia, such as parenchyma proliferation, new axial segments and type of parenchyma. In fact, it is thought that this pattern of secondary growth indicates that the stem will not develop successive cambia. Since the absence or presence of successive cambia has phylogenetic importance, a methodology which focuses on the patterns of secondary growth may improve the morphological accuracy of stem classification in this family.