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Description
Smilax Australis, commonly known as the Austral sarsaparilla or native sarsaparilla, is a woody climber that is native to Australia. It belongs to the Smilacaceae family and is known for its medicinal properties. The plant’s leaves are alternate and simple, while the flowers are small and greenish-yellow in color. The fruits are black berries that are about 6-8mm in diameter. The plant’s rhizomes are also used for medicinal purposes.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukarya |
---|---|
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Tracheophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Liliales |
Family | Smilacaceae |
Genus | Smilax |
Appearance
The Austral sarsaparilla is a woody climber that can grow up to 10 meters in length. Its leaves are glossy, dark green, and alternate, measuring about 5-12 cm long and 3-8 cm wide. The plant’s flowers are small and greenish-yellow, measuring about 2-3 mm in diameter. The fruits are black berries that are about 6-8mm in diameter. The plant’s rhizomes are also used for medicinal purposes.
Care Guide
The Austral sarsaparilla requires moderate watering and prefers well-draining soils. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer during its growing season. It prefers partial shade to full sun and can grow in hardiness zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Austral sarsaparilla is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may occasionally be affected by spider mites and scale insects. To control these pests, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Austral sarsaparilla is native to Australia and can be found in rainforests, woodlands, and coastal areas. It prefers well-draining soils and can grow in partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Austral sarsaparilla poisonous?
A: No, the Austral sarsaparilla is not considered poisonous.
Q: Can I grow the Austral sarsaparilla indoors?
A: Yes, the Austral sarsaparilla can be grown indoors as long as it receives adequate sunlight.
Q: How do I propagate the Austral sarsaparilla?
A: The Austral sarsaparilla can be propagated through stem cuttings or by dividing the plant’s rhizomes.
Q: What are the medicinal properties of the Austral sarsaparilla?
A: The plant’s rhizomes are used for their anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties.
Related Plants
- Smilax glyciphylla
- Smilax china
- Smilax ornata
References
- “Smilax australis.” PlantNet. Accessed 21 Aug. 2021. <https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Smilax~australis>.
- “Smilax australis.” Australian Native Plants Society. Accessed 21 Aug. 2021. <https://anpsa.org.au/s-austr.html>.
- “Smilax australis.” Florabank. Accessed 21 Aug. 2021. <https://www.florabank.org.au/lucid/key/species%20navigator/media/html/Smilax_australis.htm>.