Ecuadorian Sarsaparilla (Smilax febrifuga)

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

Smilax febrifuga, otherwise known as Ecuadorian Sarsaparilla, is a perennial climbing flowering plant growing up to 15 m long. It can be found in South America particularly in Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, and Guyana. Root extracts of this species is used as flavoring in beverages, ice cream, confectionery, and bakery products.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavour soft drinks ice cream, confectionery and bakery products. — Root extracts are used to flavour soft drinks ice cream, confectionery and bakery products.

Habitat & North American Range

Not known. (Zone 10)