Smilax aristolochiifolia aka Sarsaparilla

Smilax aristolochiifolia belongs to the Smilacaceae family. Its names include Mexican sarsaparilla and gray sarsaparilla. This evergreen vine lives for more than one year. Kew gives its native range as Mexico to western Honduras. Other sources name Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala within that range. It grows in a tropical climate with a dry season. Useful Tropical Plants lists it as a wild plant.

The vine grows fast and reaches about 16 feet [5 metres]. Plants For A Future gives its spread as near 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. Its stems have prickles, which matter when handling the plant. The leaves grow in turn along the stems, an alternate pattern. They are egg-shaped, thin, and leathery to the touch. The sources say no more about bark or stem colour. This plant climbs, rather than growing as a free-standing shrub.

The small green flowers have radial symmetry. This means their parts spread out around a centre. Male and female flowers grow on separate plants. The fruits are small red berries, each with two or three seeds. The sources give no months for bloom or fruit. They do not say which animals pollinate the flowers. The red fruit and evergreen leaves stand out on this vine. The sources name no set use in gardens or landscapes.

Plants For A Future places it in USDA zones 10–12. It grows in full sun or light shade. It likes moist soil that lets water drain well. It can grow in sand, loam, and clay. It tolerates soil that is mildly acid or mildly alkaline. It can grow in neutral soil as well. These soil choices do not remove its need for good drainage. The sources give few other details on how to grow it. Neither source names pests or diseases that affect this species.

The roots yield extracts used to flavour drinks and sweets. These extracts also flavour ice cream and baked foods. The roots taste bitter, with a note like liquorice. The rhizomes supply the sarsaparilla trade and local herbal markets. Reported folk uses include fever, itching, gut complaints, and skin problems. These reports describe herbal use, not proof that treatment works or is safe. Both plant references list no known hazards. This does not prove safety for every person or pet.