Smilax domingensis

Family: Smilacaceae

What it is like

A slightly woody vine. It climbs by means of tendrils. It grows 5-10 m long. The stems are slender and strong. The leaves are simple and alternate. They are 5-12 cm long by 2-7 cm wide. They are shiny on the upper surface and dull underneath. The flowers occur in single groups in the axils of leaves. They are green and have a scent. The fruit is round and fleshy. They are 1 cm across and dark violet or almost black. There is one seed.

Where it is found

It is a tropical plant.

Countries/locations it is found in

Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Central America, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, French Guiana, Greater Antilles, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, Suriname, Venezuela, West Indies

How it is used for food

The roots are used to make a soda like drink.

Edible parts

Roots - drink, young stems

How it is grown

In Puerto Rico plants flower may to August and fruit December to February.

Its other names

Local names

Asquiote, Axquiote, Azquiote, Bejuco de canasta, Bejuco de membrillo,Cocolmeca, Raiz de zarcaparilla, Zarzaparilla

Synonyms

Smilax balbisiana Kunth; And many others