Smilax glyciphylla

Smilax glyciphylla fruit1

Smilax glyciphylla, commonly known as sweet sarsaparilla, is a species of flowering plant in the family Smilacaceae. Native to Australia, it is found in a variety of habitats from rainforest understories to sclerophyll forests. This plant is notable for its sweet-tasting foliage, which has been used traditionally by Indigenous Australians for both nutritional and medicinal purposes.

Description

Smilax glyciphylla is a dioecious climber, meaning it has separate male and female plants. It can be identified by its slender stems, which are supported by tendrils that allow it to climb over other vegetation. The leaves are glossy green, heart-shaped, and have a soft, almost velvety texture. During spring and summer, it produces small, inconspicuous flowers, followed by glossy black berries in the autumn and winter months.

Distribution and Habitat

The distribution of Smilax glyciphylla is widespread across the eastern coast of Australia, extending from Queensland through to New South Wales and into the eastern parts of Victoria. It thrives in the understory of both rainforests and dry sclerophyll forests, often preferring shaded or semi-shaded conditions.

Uses

Traditionally, Smilax glyciphylla has been valued for its sweet-tasting leaves and stems. Indigenous Australians have used it as a bush food, chewing on the foliage to extract the sweet sap. The plant has also been used medicinally, with the leaves being applied to sores and boils for their purported healing properties.

In contemporary times, Smilax glyciphylla is occasionally used in bushfood cuisine, adding a natural sweetness to dishes. It is also valued in horticulture for its attractive foliage and as a climbing plant that can provide cover or decoration.

Conservation

Currently, Smilax glyciphylla does not face any major threats and is not listed on any conservation lists. Its wide distribution and adaptability to different forest types have helped ensure its survival. However, like many native species, it could be susceptible to habitat destruction and the changing climate.

See Also

• Flora of Australia
• Indigenous Australian food systems
• Bushfood