Sarsaparilla, Rough bindweed

Smilax aspera

Physical Characteristics

Smilax aspera is an evergreen Climber growing to 3 m (9ft 10in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf all year, in flower from August to September. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required).. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

S. Europe to Asia in the Himalayas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Hedge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Shoots Edible Uses: Drink Young shoots - raw or cooked as a vegetable[89, 100, 148, 183, 272]. They can be cooked and used as an asparagus substitute. The tendrils are also eaten[148]. The plant is an ingredient of soft drinks[7, 14]. (this probably refers to the root)

Medicinal Uses

Alterative Antipsoriatic Demulcent Depurative Diaphoretic Diuretic Parasiticide Stimulant Tonic The root is alterative, demulcent, depurative, diaphoretic, diuretic, stimulant and tonic[7, 14]. This is one of the best depurative medicines and is used as a springtime tonic and general body cleanser, usually with woody nightshade (Solanum dulcamara)[7]. The root has all the medicinal virtues of the widely used tropical herb sarsaparilla, though to a lesser degree[7]. It is often used as an adulterant to that plant[7]. The ripe fruits are squeezed and applied to the skin in the treatment of scabies[272].

Known Hazards

None known