Horse Brier, Roundleaf greenbrier, Brambles

Smilax rotundifolia

Physical Characteristics

Smilax rotundifolia is a deciduous Climber growing to 12 m (39ft 4in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. 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. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Nova Scotia to Florida, west to Texas and Illinois.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Shoots Edible Uses: Drink Root - cooked[2, 102, 161, 257]. Rich in starch[105]. The root can be dried and ground into a powder that is used in making cakes, puddings, sweet drinks etc[46, 183], it can also be made into a jelly or eaten in soups[159]. A beer resembling root beer or sarsaparilla is made from the roots[183]. Young shoots - raw or cooked[62, 102, 105, 159]. They can be added to salads or cooked like asparagus[183].

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 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[222, 257]. 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