False China Root

Smilax pseudochina

Physical Characteristics

Smilax pseudochina is a deciduous Climber growing to 2 m (6ft 7in). It is in flower from June 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 or wet soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Maryland to Illinois, Nebraska, Kansas, Florida and Texas.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Shoots Edible Uses: Root - raw or cooked[2, 95, 102]. Rich in starch, it can be dried and ground into a powder[46, 161] or made into jelly, fritters etc[105]. Very tender, it is nice raw[178]. Young shoots - cooked. Used as an asparagus substitute[2, 102, 105].

Medicinal Uses

The root is astringent and slightly tonic[178, 257]. It is specific in the treatment of syphilis[178]. The parched and powdered leaves have been used as a dressing on burns and scalds[257]. The wilted leaves have been used as a poultice on boils[257].

Known Hazards

None known