🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
The young shoots and tendrils are edible when cooked, resembling asparagus. The rhizomes are starchy and can be used as a survival food after extensive processing to remove toxins. The berries are reportedly edible when ripe, although not particularly palatable and should be eaten with caution. It's primarily valued for its dense, thorny growth, which can create excellent wildlife habitat and a living fence for security or privacy. Its vigorous growth can be used to stabilize slopes or prevent erosion. Potential medicinal uses include treatment of skin ailments, digestive issues, and arthritis, but more research is needed.
Permapeople description
Smilax bona-nox, commonly called saw greenbrier, is a thorny vine with broad, heart-shaped leaves. It is native to the southeastern United States.
Botanical description
Smilax bona-nox is a perennial, climbing or trailing vine with thorny stems, belonging to the Smilacaceae family. It possesses alternate, simple, ovate to lanceolate leaves that are often mottled with lighter green or silver. The leaves are typically leathery and have a somewhat shiny surface. The stems are armed with stout, flattened thorns. It produces small, greenish-white flowers in axillary umbels. These are followed by round, black berries. The plant spreads via underground rhizomes, forming dense thickets. It is native to the southeastern United States and parts of Central America. It is highly adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of soil types and light conditions, but prefers well-drained soil. The vines can reach lengths of up to 30 feet.
Companion planting
Due to its aggressive growth and thorny nature, Smilax bona-nox may not be a suitable companion plant for delicate or smaller plants. It can compete for resources and potentially smother less vigorous species. It provides excellent habitat and cover for wildlife. Consider its location carefully to avoid it becoming a nuisance.
Propagation methods
Propagation can be achieved through seed, rhizome division, or cuttings. Seed propagation requires scarification or stratification to improve germination rates. Rhizome division is best done in the early spring or fall. Stem cuttings can be rooted under humid conditions.
History and traditions
Native American tribes used various Smilax species, including possibly S. bona-nox, for food, medicine, and fiber. The roots were used to make a starchy flour after extensive processing, and the young shoots were consumed as a vegetable. Medicinally, infusions were used to treat various ailments, including skin problems, urinary issues, and as a blood purifier. The tough stems were used for weaving baskets and mats.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs in the spring (April-May). Berries mature in the fall (September-October). Planting is best done in the spring or fall. Pruning can be done as needed to control growth or remove dead material, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.