Mexican sarsaparilla
Smilax aristolochiifolia

Family: Smilacaceae

What it is like

A climbing vine. It has tendrils. It grows 4-5 m long. The roots can be 2-2.5 m long. The leaves are papery and arranged alternately. The leaves are 10-30 cm wide. The flowers are small and green. The fruit are small red berries with 2-3 seeds.

Where it is found

It is a tropical plant. It grows in warm and swampy areas. It grows between 850-1,760 m above sea level.

Countries/locations it is found in

Belize, Central America, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, North America, USA

How it is used for food

The root is used to make a drink. The roots are used for sarsaparilla flavouring. It is used commercially for flavouring root beers, baked goods, ice cream candy and drinks.

One of the main sources of sarsaparilla.

Edible parts

Rhizome - flavouring, leaves

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Enredadera de monte, Gray sarsaparilla, Veracruz sarsaparilla, Zarzaparilla

Synonyms

Smilax medica Schltdl. & Cham.;