Smilax auriculata
Smilax auriculata
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Pl. 7630 — Smilax auriculata
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IOverview
Overview
Smilax auriculata, commonly known as catbrier or deerberry, is a climbing shrub native to the southeastern United States and the Bahamas. This plant thrives in moist environments with light to partial shade and can grow up to 7 meters tall. It is valued for its edible roots, which are often used in traditional cooking. Catbrier can be found growing in various soil types, including sandy, medium, and clay soils, making it adaptable to different habitats within its native range. Its distinctive features include thorny stems and heart-shaped leaves, setting it apart from other plants in the Smilax genus.
Quick answers
What is Smilax auriculata?
Smilax auriculata, commonly known as catbrier or deerberry, is a climbing shrub native to the southeastern United States and the Bahamas. This plant thrives in moist environments with light to partial shade and can grow up to 7 meters tall.
What is Smilax auriculata used for?
Traditionally used for digestion, immune support. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Smilax auriculata
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Smilax species are traditionally used in herbal medicine to support digestion, often prepared as a tea or decoction from the root. This preparation may help alleviate digestive discomfort.
The mechanism by which Smilax supports digestion is not fully characterised but may involve compounds that aid in regulating gastrointestinal motility and reducing inflammation.
- Smilax species have been traditionally used in Native American medicine for immune support, often prepared as a decoction from the root. This preparation may help bolster the body's defenses against common ailments.
The mechanism by which Smilax supports immunity is not fully characterised but may involve compounds that modulate inflammatory responses and enhance immune cell activity.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Smilax auriculata thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows up to 7 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, root cuttings are effective. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist for best growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Mature size
7.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Smilax auriculata for the first time
7steps
Start with a simple, light-loving Smilax auriculata for your first gardening project.
- 1
What you'll need
A young plant or rooted cutting, garden gloves, and a trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with light to partial shade. Ensure the soil drains well and is rich in organic matter.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants directly into the garden, spacing them about 1-2 meters apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide consistent moisture and light. Prune occasionally to maintain shape and remove dead growth.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and maintain size.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The root of Smilax auriculata is edible and can be prepared in various ways. It is often used raw or cooked, though preparation methods may vary based on local culinary practices. Skip
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
10 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
10 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 10 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Americas1 region
native (1)Bahamas
Broader regions
native:Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Turks-Caicos Is., Brazil Southeast
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family, common use cases, and growing requirements.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
XII
About this entry
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- Citation
- How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · 763034e2-4446-4856-9a5a-4803ce093204
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