Hag Briar

Smilax hispida

Physical Characteristics

Smilax hispida is a deciduous Climber growing to 15 m (49ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower in June. 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 and can grow in very alkaline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern and Central N. America - Connecticut to Ontario, Minnesota, Nebraska, N. Carolina and Texas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Shoots Edible Uses: Leaves and young shoots - raw or cooked[102]. Root - cooked. It can be dried, ground into a powder and then used with cereals for making bread etc[2, 62, 102]. It can also be used as a gelatine substitute[2, 62, 102].

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