Smilax glabra
Smilax glabrafam. Liliaceae
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Pl. A816 — Smilax glabra
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IOverview
Overview
Smilax glabra, a member of the Dioscoreaceae family, is native to regions including Assam, Bangladesh, Cambodia, and various areas in China such as North-Central, South-Central, and Southeastern parts, as well as Hainan, Laos, Myanmar, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. This plant thrives in moist conditions and can grow up to 3 meters tall, adapting to light to partial shade environments. Known both for its edible fruit and medicinal properties, S. glabra is valued for its versatile uses. One distinctive feature of this plant is its ability to grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, medium, and clay soils, making it adaptable in different habitats.
Quick answers
What is Smilax glabra?
Smilax glabra, a member of the Dioscoreaceae family, is native to regions including Assam, Bangladesh, Cambodia, and various areas in China such as North-Central, South-Central, and Southeastern parts, as well as Hainan, Laos, Myanmar, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.
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.
Digestive Harmony
digestiontincture
Historically used for digestive issues.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Smilax glabra thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows up to 3 meters tall and is native to regions including Assam, Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, Hainan, Laos, Myanmar, Taiwan, Thailand, Tibet, and Vietnam. This plant is hardy in temperate regions and can be propagated through its roots and fruit. Harvest the edible parts for use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Smilax glabra for the first time
8steps
Start with basic care and focus on establishing the plant before harvesting.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip rhizome, garden gloves, pruning shears.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip in spring or early summer when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Ensure good drainage.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip rhizomes 30-60 cm apart in the prepared soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist and avoid direct sunlight for the first few days.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts to maintain shape and remove dead stems.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, neglecting to mulch, not providing enough space between plants.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitRoot
Edible uses: The fruit and roots of Smilax glabra are edible. The roots can be eaten raw or cooked, while the fruits are typically consumed fresh. Both parts are often prepared in stews or soups due to their texture and flavor.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
14 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
14 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 14 native
Asia9 regions
native (9)BangladeshCambodiaChinaIndiaLaosMyanmarTaiwanThailandVietnam
Broader regions
native:Hainan, 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 (Liliaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Liliaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · a8162357-3b7d-44c1-9d51-88febe2a2747
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