The plant genus Smilax encompasses approximately 300 to 350 species of perennial flowering plants found throughout the world’s tropical and temperate regions. Known as Greenbrier, Catbrier, and Sarsaparilla, these species belong to the family Smilacaceae. They are predominantly woody, climbing vines that can form dense thickets. The genus is recognized for its tenacious, twining nature, making it a familiar sight in many forest ecosystems.
Identifying Features of Smilax Species
The morphology of Smilax species is characterized by features that facilitate climbing and provide protection. The stems are typically wiry and woody, armed with sharp prickles or thorns, giving rise to the common name “brier.” A defining characteristic is the presence of tendrils, slender, coiled structures originating in pairs from the leaf petiole. These tendrils act as anchors, allowing the vine to climb over other vegetation, sometimes reaching lengths of 10 to 15 meters.
The leaves are alternate and often tough or leathery, featuring a distinctive venation pattern where three to eleven main veins run in parallel arches from the base to the tip. Leaves can be deciduous or evergreen and vary widely in shape, which can make species identification challenging. Flowers are small and inconspicuous, appearing in axillary clusters called umbels, and are typically greenish, yellow, or bronze. Following flowering, the plants produce small, fleshy berries, which can be red, orange, blue, purple, or black when ripe, and usually contain one to four seeds.
Where Smilax Thrives
Smilax exhibits a pantropical and temperate distribution, found across tropical and subtropical zones, extending into cooler regions like North America, Europe, and Asia. In the Western Hemisphere, species are found from the southern United States down through Central and South America.
Smilax species have adapted to habitats ranging from wet swamps and bottomlands to dry uplands and scrub environments. They are frequently found at the edges of forests, in disturbed areas, and in thickets where they can access supporting structures for climbing. This vigorous growth provides food and shelter for various wildlife, including deer, rabbits, and many species of birds.
Historical and Modern Applications
The various species of Smilax have a long history of use by humans, both as a food source and in traditional medicine. The young, tender shoots of many species are edible and can be cooked and consumed like asparagus. Additionally, the roots, or rhizomes, of certain species are starchy and have been prepared and eaten similar to potatoes.
The dried root is the source of sarsaparilla, particularly from Neotropical species like Smilax ornata and Smilax regelii. Historically, this root was widely used in traditional medicine across different cultures, including in the Americas and China, for conditions ranging from skin ailments to blood purification and the treatment of syphilis. These applications are attributed to the root’s content of compounds like saponins and flavonoids, which have been studied for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Sarsaparilla root was an early flavoring used in soft drinks, most famously in the 19th century as a component of root beer. However, the majority of modern commercial sarsaparilla flavorings are now derived from artificial compounds or other plant sources, with true Smilax root extract being less common. While the root remains available as a supplement, containing compounds such as astilbin, modern research on its therapeutic effects in humans is limited, with most evidence coming from traditional use and animal studies.