False China Root (Smilax pseudochina)

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

Smilax pseudochina is a deciduous Climber growing to 2 m (6ft 7in). It is in flower from June 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: Shoots, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Rich in starch, it can be dried and ground into a powder or made into jelly, fritters etc. — Root - raw or cooked.; Rich in starch, it can be dried and ground into a powder or made into jelly, fritters etc.; Very tender, it is nice raw.; Young shoots - cooked.

Habitat & North American Range

Sphagnum swales, bogs, borders of low woods and damp sands. Dry or sandy thickets. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)