How to Grow Smilax
Smilax
Smilax spp.
vineSmilax is a vigorous, woody or herbaceous climbing vine native to tropical and subtropical regions, known for its glossy, heart-shaped or lance-shaped leaves and small clustered flowers followed by colorful berries. Several species are cultivated ornamentally for their attractive foliage and ability to climb structures, while some are valued for their edible tubers and medicinal properties. The genus includes both evergreen and deciduous varieties depending on species and climate.
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Example Smilax timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Smilax
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Smilax
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 8-11; some hardy species survive in zone 7 with protection
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Get my Smilax timeline →Growth Stages
Vegetative Growth
3-6 monthsVigorous vine growth with increasing stem length and dense foliage development. Thorns become more pronounced on mature stems.
Train vines along support structure. Provide consistent moisture and monthly feeding with balanced fertilizer. Prune to shape as desired.
Flowering
4-8 weeksSmall, inconspicuous flowers appear in clusters along the stems, typically greenish-white or yellowish. Flowers are fragrant on some species.
Reduce nitrogen fertilizer to encourage flowering. Maintain consistent watering. Do not heavily prune during this stage.
Fruiting
2-3 monthsFlowers develop into clusters of small berries that transition from green to red or black depending on species. Berries are ornamental but may be toxic on some species.
Continue regular watering. Avoid disturbing fruiting shoots. Some species produce edible fruits; verify species before consuming.
Dormancy/Maintenance
2-4 months depending on climateDeciduous varieties shed leaves in winter; evergreen types retain foliage. Growth slows dramatically in cooler months.
Reduce watering in winter. Prune dead or damaged canes in late winter before new growth. Protect tender varieties from frost with mulch or covering.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; increase humidity; remove heavily infested leaves
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators
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Prune infested stems; spray with horticultural oil in dormant season; apply systemic insecticide if severe
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Improve air circulation; remove infected leaves; apply fungicide if widespread; avoid overhead watering
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Remove affected foliage; maintain air circulation; apply copper or sulfur fungicide; avoid wetting foliage
Uses
Decorative foliage and climbing displays
OrnamentalSmilax vines are prized by florists and gardeners for their elegant, glossy foliage used in floral arrangements and as natural screening on trellises, pergolas, and garden structures. The attractive berries add color and texture to late-season arrangements. [source]
Edible tubers and young shoots
CulinaryCertain Smilax species produce edible tubers (corms) that can be cooked and eaten as a starch, particularly in Asian cuisines. Young shoots are occasionally consumed as a vegetable in some cultures. [source]
Traditional herbal remedies
MedicinalSmilax has been used in traditional Chinese medicine and indigenous remedies to treat various ailments including inflammation, digestive issues, and skin conditions. Modern herbal practitioners recommend it as a potential anti-inflammatory and immune support agent. [source]
Natural greenhouse and landscape design
HouseholdSmilax vines create natural privacy screens, windbreaks, and shade structures while providing habitat for beneficial insects and birds. They are excellent for living walls and green architecture applications. [source]
Food and shelter for birds and pollinators
WildlifeThe flowers attract pollinators while the berries provide food for birds and small mammals. The dense foliage offers shelter and nesting sites for various wildlife species. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
For ornamental use, harvest stems for arrangements year-round, cutting above a leaf node to encourage branching. For edible tubers (if species supports this), harvest in autumn after vines die back by carefully digging around the base. Berries can be harvested when fully colored if using for ornamental purposes, but verify species edibility before consuming any fruits.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Smilax is the source plant for traditional sarsaparilla beverages, particularly valued in the American South and Caribbean, though modern commercial sarsaparilla often uses other botanicals or synthetic flavors.
- 🌱 The genus includes over 300 species distributed across tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, with some being completely thornless while others are extremely prickly, earning them the nickname 'catbrier' or 'greenbrier' in North America.
- 🌱 Smilax foliage has been used in European floral design for centuries and remains a staple in high-end wedding and event arrangements, prized for its longevity and elegant appearance.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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