Introduction to plants of the genus Smilax
Plants of the genus smilax, also popularly known as sarsaparillas, are notable for their adaptability and wide distribution in temperate and tropical regions. Within this genus, species such as Smilax rough y Smilax canariensis, prized for both their unique botanical characteristics and their numerous ornamental, medicinal, and ecological uses. The following section delves into the characteristics of Smilax plants, their morphology, habitats, and uses, providing a comprehensive overview from both a botanical and practical perspective.
Botanical characteristics of Smilax
The genus Smilax groups together perennial climbing plants which can reach several meters in length. Many of its members have thin, flexible, woody stems, armed with spines that facilitate their ascent to other plants or structures through the use of tendrils. These adaptations allow Smilax to effectively colonize thickets, forest edges and shady areas, forming dense plant networks.
- Sheets: They are alternate, persistent, heart-shaped (cordiform) or lanceolate, and have a leathery texture. The leaves frequently exhibit very marked ribbing and spiny margins (depending on the species), in addition to having two tendrils at the base of the petiole that help the plant to climb.
- Flowers: They are small, yellowish-white or greenish-yellow in color and are grouped in axillary clusters or umbels of between 5 and 25 flowers. They lack ornamental appeal but perform a fundamental ecological function, attracting pollinators.
- Fruits: The typical fruit is a globose berry, initially green, which develops into red, blackish, or almost black hues when ripe. They usually contain one to three seeds (although the number varies according to the species) and are usually toxic for human consumption, except for species used in traditional medicine.
- Estate: Smilax have rhizomatous, cylindrical and fibrous roots, historically appreciated for their medicinal properties and as an ingredient in traditional beverages.
Distribution and favorite habitats
Species of the genus Smilax have a wide natural distribution, with representatives in Africa, Europe, Asia and America. Smilax rough, the best-known sarsaparilla in the Mediterranean basin, is present from low, humid areas to rocky outcrops, where it finds support and partial shade. It adapts to different types of soil—both calcareous and siliceous—and thrives in environments with low or medium humidity, although it tolerates poor soils as long as they have good drainage. It has a preference for exposures of partial shade or shade, making it an excellent choice for understories, thickets, or ecological restorations.
On the other hand, Smilax canariensis It occupies laurel and heather habitats in the Macaronesian Islands (Azores, Madeira, Canary Islands), preferring shady areas and constant ambient humidityTo learn more about the flora of these ecosystems, we recommend visiting This section on laurel forest on our site.
Classification and featured species
- Family: Smilacaceae
- Gender: smilax
- Main species:
- Smilax rough (common or Mediterranean sarsaparilla): Widespread in the Mediterranean basin, the Iberian Peninsula, the Balearic Islands, North Africa and even western Asia.
- Smilax canariensis (Canarian sarsaparilla): Macaronesian endemism, present in Madeira, the Azores and the Canary Islands.
- Smilax doctor: Native to Central and South America, noted for its traditional use in indigenous medicine.
Morphology and adaptations of Smilax
La morphology of Smilax It is marked by various adaptations that favor its survival:
- Present branched and thorny stems, which make it difficult for herbivores to access and allow them to climb in search of light.
- The presence of tendrils at the base of the leaves It is characteristic, ensuring optimal anchoring.
- The leathery, persistent leaf protects against drying and allows light to be used in shaded conditions.
- The plant has a lianoid shape and can reach a height of a few centimetres to several metres, depending on the environmental conditions and the species.
Ecological requirements and resistance
- Humidity: It adapts to low or medium humidity levels and tolerates drought periods, making it a suitable option for xeriscaping.
- Light: Prefers shade or semi-shade, although some species thrive well in full sun in mild climates.
- Temperature: It withstands moderately low temperatures and is especially hardy in Mediterranean climates.
- Ground: Regardless of the texture (whether limestone or siliceous), good drainage should always be ensured to avoid fungal diseases.
- Flowering: The flowering period is from late summer to autumn, depending on the species and climatic conditions.
Uses of Smilax plants
- Ornamentals: Smilax is used in sustainable gardening, environmental restoration, natural hedges, and plant barriers thanks to its dense growth, hardiness, and ornamental berries.
- Medicinal: Its roots and leaves (not the fruit, which is often toxic) have been used in traditional medicine in various cultures. Its applications include:
- Purifying and diuretic: Promotes the elimination of toxins and helps in the treatment of kidney and circulatory problems.
- Anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties thanks to the presence of saponins, phytosterols and flavonoids.
- It has been used to relieve skin conditions (such as dermatitis, acne, eczema and psoriasis) by applying poultices or decoctions of its leaves and roots.
- They also attribute to him tonic, aphrodisiac actions and appetite stimulants.
- In some regions, root beer is made from Smilax, a traditional beverage with potential digestive and medicinal effects.
- Recent research on its furostanol content has suggested potential applications against cancer cell proliferation, although this is a developing field.
- Ecology and restoration: The strength of its rhizomatous root system and its ability to cover the soil make Smilax an ally in the restoration of degraded soils.
- Symbolism: The genus Smilax takes its name from a Greek myth associated with transformation and tragic love, which adds a cultural and historical nuance to its relevance.
Curiosities, etymology and names
- Etymology: Name smilax comes from Greek and refers to both thorny plants as mythological legends. The epithet rough means "rough" in Latin, referring to the rough surface of the stems and leaves.
- Popular names: Sarsaparilla is known in various regions by names such as barbecue sauce, salsaparrilla, dog grape, ivy, zaparrilla, mermasangre, zarzamorisca, morisca bramble, white sarsaparilla, wild sarsaparilla, and many others. This vocabulary richness reflects its extensive presence and cultural relevance in European and American ethnobotany.
Differences with other similar species
- Not to be confused with the black walnut (Tamus communis), which is also a climber, but whose fruits have more seeds, lack tendrils and are toxic.
- It should not be confused with the lamp (Arisarum simorrhinum), whose leaf may be similar, but lacks the characteristic spines and tendrils typical of Smilax.
Main chemical components and medicinal properties
- Saponins: They give Smilax diuretic, purifying and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Phytosterols: They help reduce cholesterol and have additional anti-inflammatory effects.
- Flavonoids: They exert antioxidant action and protect cells from oxidative damage, promoting cardiovascular health.
- Minerals: Potassium, iron and calcium stand out, essential for multiple functions of the body.
Modern research continues to explore the therapeutic potential of these compounds, expanding Smilax's traditional applications in modern herbal medicine.
Through their rich morphology, adaptability and ethnobotanical value, plants of the genus Smilax occupy a prominent place both in the natural environment and in popular culture. Their resilience, The medicinal applications of its root and the characteristic beauty of its fruits justify the renewed interest in its conservation and responsible use in gardens, restorations and herbal formulas.
