Smilax lanceifolia

Smilax lanceifolia is a vine in the Smilacaceae family. Its native range spans Nepal, Taiwan and western Malesia. Kew puts it in a subtropical climate zone. Useful Tropical Plants gives a wider climate range. This runs from warm temperate to tropical regions. It grows in woods, at their edges, and in thickets. It grows on damp slopes in shade, too. Known sites lie 328–9,186 feet [100–2,800 metres] above sea level.

Several stems branch out from a thick, tuberous rootstock. They climb through nearby plants. Tendrils help them grip and hold on. Useful Tropical Plants gives a height of 3–16 feet [1–5 metres]. Its summary lists about 11.5 feet [3.5 metres]. Plants For A Future gives just 6.6 feet [2 metres]. These heights do not set a clear size range for gardens. The sources differ on whether it keeps its leaves. Useful Tropical Plants calls it evergreen, keeping its leaves. Plants For A Future calls it deciduous, shedding its leaves. Both say this species varies a great deal.

Male and female flowers grow on separate plants. Plants For A Future lists blooms from September to March. It says seeds ripen from November to March. The plant cannot use its own pollen to set seed. Grow both sexes to get fruit and seed. The small, round fruits span about 0.24–0.28 inches. They range in colour from yellow-red to black. The sources give no full account of flower colour. Nor do they give details of leaf shape.

Useful Tropical Plants says it grows in sun or part shade. It says most soils will suit the plant. Plants For A Future says it prefers moist soil. It suggests sites at woodland edges or in patchy shade. These uses fit its forest home and climbing form. That source is unsure how well it withstands British cold. The evidence gives no firm hardiness zone. Neither source details pests or diseases for this species.

People gather the wild plant for food and medicine. They cook its tender shoots and young leaves as vegetables. They eat the ripe fruit raw, too. Both sources list no known hazards. This does not prove that the plant is safe. Folk uses include root-based remedies for rheumatism. Useful Tropical Plants also lists roots boiled in water for syphilis. These are folk uses, not treatments with proven benefits.