Smilax aspera
Smilax aspera
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Pl. 1216 — Smilax aspera
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IOverview
Overview
Smilax aspera, a vine and herb native to Malawi and Turkey-in-Europe, is known for its edible and medicinal uses. This plant thrives in moist conditions and prefers light to medium soil types, growing up to 3 meters tall. It requires full or partial sun and can tolerate various hardiness zones from 8 to 11. The edible parts include leaves, roots, and shoots, making it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes. Its distinctive feature is its ability to grow in diverse environments, contributing to its adaptability and utility both in the wild and cultivated settings.
Quick answers
What is Smilax aspera?
Smilax aspera, a vine and herb native to Malawi and Turkey-in-Europe, is known for its edible and medicinal uses. This plant thrives in moist conditions and prefers light to medium soil types, growing up to 3 meters tall. It requires full or partial sun and can tolerate various hardiness zones from 8 to 11.
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Smilax aspera thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Hardy in zones 8-11, it grows up to 3 meters tall as a vine or forb/herb. For best results, keep the soil consistently moist and provide ample sunlight. Propagate through root cuttings or shoots for easy growth. Harvest edible parts such as leaves, roots, and shoots.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Habit
Vine, Forb/herb
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Smilax aspera for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple vine that can thrive in various conditions, making it perfect for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip rhizomes or seeds, garden gloves, and a trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip in spring when the soil is moist and warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a mix of light, medium, or heavy clay. Amend as needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip rhizomes 30-60 cm apart in moist soil. For seeds, sow them directly in the garden after the last frost.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade and regular watering. Prune occasionally for shape and health.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Skip in late winter before new growth starts to maintain its shape and encourage healthy shoots.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, ignoring soil drainage, not providing support for the vines.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesRootShoots
Edible uses: Drink
Other uses:DyeHedgerowPest controlFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
14 native · 16 introduced
Distribution
14 native · 16 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 14 native· 16 introduced
Europe3 regions
introduced (3)ItalyPortugalSpain
Asia5 regions
introduced (5)BangladeshMyanmarNepalPakistanPalestine
Africa14 regions
native (9)EswatiniEthiopiaKenyaLesothoMalawiNamibiaTanzaniaUgandaZimbabwe
introduced (5)AlgeriaEritreaEthiopiaLibyaMorocco
Broader regions
native:Turkey-in-Europe, KwaZulu-Natal, Cape Provinces, Northern Provinces, Free State
introduced:East Himalaya, East Aegean Is., Lebanon-Syria
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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