Earleaf Greenbrier (Smilax auriculata)

Family: Smilacaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Smilax auriculata is an evergreen Climber growing to 7 m (23ft). It is in leaf all year, in flower from May to July. 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.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Rich in starch, it can be dried and ground into a powder which can be used with cereal flours in making breads, soups, jellies etc. — Rich in starch, it can be dried and ground into a powder which can be used with cereal flours in making breads, soups, jellies etc.; The plant produces dense masses of potato-like tubers.

Habitat & North American Range

Woods, thickets, fence rows and streambanks. Dunes and sandy flatwoods usually in full sun, from sea level to 100 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)