Sarsparilla (Smilax glyciphylla)

Family: Smilacaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Smilax glyciphylla is an evergreen Climber. It is in leaf all year. 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. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

refreshing to chew. — The leaves are refreshing to chew.; The leaves are used as a tea substitute.; A sugar substitute.; The part used is not specified.

Habitat & North American Range

Valleys in humid positions along the coast. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)