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Description
Smilax Aspericaulis, commonly known as the rough greenbrier, is a perennial vine that belongs to the Smilacaceae family. This plant is native to the eastern part of North America, from Maine to Florida and west to Texas. It is a climbing vine that can grow up to 20 feet in length and has thorny stems. The leaves of the Smilax Aspericaulis are dark green and glossy, with a length of 2 to 6 inches and a width of 1 to 3 inches. The flowers of this plant are small and greenish-white, and the fruit is a dark blue berry. The roots of the Smilax Aspericaulis are used in traditional medicine for their diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-rheumatic properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Smilacaceae |
| Genus | Smilax |
Appearance
The Smilax Aspericaulis is a climbing vine that can grow up to 20 feet in length. The stems of this plant are thorny and can cause irritation to the skin. The leaves of the Smilax Aspericaulis are dark green and glossy, with a length of 2 to 6 inches and a width of 1 to 3 inches. The leaves are usually ovate or elliptic in shape and have a smooth margin. The flowers of this plant are small and greenish-white, and they bloom in the late spring or early summer. The fruit of the Smilax Aspericaulis is a dark blue berry that is edible but not commonly eaten.
Care Guide
To care for the Smilax Aspericaulis, you must provide it with adequate water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and protection from harsh weather conditions. This plant prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It also requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. The Smilax Aspericaulis can tolerate partial shade, but it grows best in full sun. It is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9 and can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°F. Fertilize the Smilax Aspericaulis once a year with a balanced fertilizer in the early spring.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Smilax Aspericaulis is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can occasionally be affected by spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The Smilax Aspericaulis can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. If the plant is affected, fungicides can be used to control the disease.
Habitat
The Smilax Aspericaulis is native to the eastern part of North America, from Maine to Florida and west to Texas. It grows in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, forests, and swamps. This plant prefers moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate partial shade. The Smilax Aspericaulis is an important food source for wildlife, including birds and small mammals.
Question and Answers
Q: Is the Smilax Aspericaulis edible?
A: Yes, the fruit of the Smilax Aspericaulis is edible, but it is not commonly eaten.
Q: Can the thorny stems of the Smilax Aspericaulis cause skin irritation?
A: Yes, the thorny stems of the Smilax Aspericaulis can cause skin irritation.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Smilax Aspericaulis?
A: The Smilax Aspericaulis is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize the Smilax Aspericaulis?
A: The Smilax Aspericaulis should be fertilized once a year with a balanced fertilizer in the early spring.
Related Plants
- Smilax rotundifolia
- Smilax glabra
- Smilax herbacea
- Smilax laurifolia
- Smilax pumila
References
- Bonnie, J., & Hilscher, R. (2005). Woody plants of the southeastern United States: a winter guide. University of Georgia Press.
- Dirr, M. A. (1998). Manual of woody landscape plants: their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Publishing.
- USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. (n.d.). Smilax aspericaulis. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SMAS3
