China Root (Smilax china)

Family: Smilacaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Smilax china is a deciduous Climber growing to 4.5 m (14ft 9in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower in May, and the seeds ripen in October. 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: Fruit, Leaves, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Rich in starch, the large and fleshy roots can be dried and ground into a powder. — Rich in starch, the large and fleshy roots can be dried and ground into a powder.; The root is harvested by severing larger roots near the crown and leaving the smaller roots to grow on.; Young shoots and leaves - raw or cooked.; Used as a potherb.

Habitat & North American Range

Shrub thickets in hills and mountains. Forests, thickets, hillsides, grassy slopes, shaded places along valleys or streams from near sea level to 2000 metres. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)