Laurel Greenbrier

Smilax laurifolia

Physical Characteristics

Smilax laurifolia is an evergreen Climber growing to 6 m (19ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to August. 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 - New Jersey to Florida and Texas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Shoots Edible Uses: Root - cooked[2, 102, 161, 177]. Rich in starch[46, 105], it can be dried and ground into a powder to be used as a flavouring in soups etc or for making bread[257]. The root can be up to 15cm thick[235]. Young shoots - cooked. Used as an asparagus substitute[2, 46, 102, 161].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Birthing aid Poultice Rubefacient Tonic 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]. The root bark is astringent and slightly tonic[257]. An infusion of the root bark has been used as a wash in treating burns, sores and pox[257].

Known Hazards

None known