Sarsaparilla (Smilax aspera)

Family: Smilacaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Smilax aspera is an evergreen Climber growing to 3 m (9ft 10in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf all year, in flower from August to September. 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.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Shoots, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young shoots - raw or cooked as a vegetable. They can be cooked and used as an asparagus substitute. The tendrils are also eaten. The plant is an ingredient of soft drinks. (this probably refers to the root). — Young shoots - raw or cooked as a vegetable.; They can be cooked and used as an asparagus substitute.; The tendrils are also eaten.; The plant is an ingredient of soft drinks.

Habitat & North American Range

Bushy places, river banks and ravines, usually close to the sea. Forests at elevations of 1000 - 2000 metres in S. Xizang and SW Yunnan, China. (Zone 8)