Sarsparilla

Smilax glyciphylla

Physical Characteristics

Smilax glyciphylla is an evergreen Climber. It is in leaf all year. 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

Australia - New South Wales, Queensland.

Habitats

Edible Uses

The leaves are refreshing to chew[157]. The leaves are used as a tea substitute[2, 152, 177]. A sugar substitute[152]. The part used is not specified.

Medicinal Uses

Alterative, antiscorbutic, diuretic, pectoral, tonic[152].

Known Hazards

None known