Smilax lanceifolia

Physical Characteristics

Smilax lanceifolia is a deciduous Climber growing to 2 m (6ft 7in). It is in flower from September to March, and the seeds ripen from November to March. 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

E. Asia - W. China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Leaves Shoots Edible Uses: Tender young shoots and leaves - cooked as a vegetable[272]. Ripe fruits - raw[272].

Medicinal Uses

Antirheumatic The juice off the fresh root is taken internally in the treatment of rheumatism, whilst the residue of the root is applied externally to the affected parts[240].

Known Hazards

None known