Hag Briar (Smilax hispida)

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

Smilax hispida is a deciduous Climber growing to 15 m (49ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower in June. 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: Leaves, Shoots, Roots/Tubers

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Leaves and young shoots - raw or cooked. Root - cooked. It can be dried, ground into a powder and then used with cereals for making bread etc. It can also be used as a gelatine substitute. — Leaves and young shoots - raw or cooked.; It can be dried, ground into a powder and then used with cereals for making bread etc.; It can also be used as a gelatine substitute.

Habitat & North American Range

Rich, often calcareous, soils in woods, thickets and bottoms. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)