Earleaf Greenbrier

Smilax auriculata

Physical Characteristics

Smilax auriculata is an evergreen Climber growing to 7 m (23ft). It is in leaf all year, in flower from May to July. 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

South-eastern N. America - Florida to Texas, Minnesota and Ontario.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Root - cooked. Rich in starch, it can be dried and ground into a powder which can be used with cereal flours in making breads, soups, jellies etc[46, 61, 105, 161, 177]. The plant produces dense masses of potato-like tubers[270].

Medicinal Uses

Birthing aid Poultice Rubefacient The stem prickles have been rubbed on the skin as a counter-irritant to relieve localised pains, muscle cramps and twitching[222]. A tea made from the leaves and stems has been used in the treatment of rheumatism and stomach problems[222]. The wilted leaves are applied as a poultice to boils[222]. A tea made from the roots is used to help the expelling of afterbirth[222]. Reports that the roots contain the hormone testosterone have not been confirmed, they might contain steroid precursors, however[222].

Known Hazards

None known