Smilax aspera
TAXONOMY
FamilySmilacaceae
GenusSmilax
Zone8
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Smilax aspera, commonly known as rough bindweed or sarsaparilla, is a climbing plant native to the Mediterranean region. It is known for its thorny stems and heart-shaped leaves. The plant produces small, fragrant flowers and dark berries. It typically goes dormant in the winter months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Rough Bindweed
Smilax aspera subsp. balearica
Smilax aspera subsp. mauritanica
Smilax aspera subsp. nigra
Smilax aspera var. altissima
Smilax aspera var. angustifolia
Smilax aspera var. balearica
Smilax aspera var. maculata
Smilax aspera var. mauritanica
Smilax aspera var. nigra
Smilax aspera var. ochrocarpa
Smilax aspera var. perrottetiana
Smilax balearica
Smilax brevipes
Smilax capitata
Smilax catalonica
Smilax conferta
Smilax excelsa
Smilax goetzeana
Smilax inermis
Smilax intricatissima
Smilax longipes
Smilax maculata
Smilax mauritanica
Smilax mauritanica subsp. vespertilionis
Smilax mauritanica var. vespertilionis
Smilax nigra
Smilax nilagirensis
Smilax oxycarpa
Smilax peduncularis
Smilax pendulina
Smilax picta
Smilax platyphylla
Smilax rettiana
Smilax rigida
Smilax sagittata
Smilax sagittifolia
Smilax saxicola
Smilax tetragona
Smilax variabilis
Smilax willkommii
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Smilax aspera thrives in temperate climates with moderate temperatures. It prefers bright, indirect light and should be watered when the soil partially dries out. Maintain moderate humidity levels to keep the plant healthy.Soil
This plant prefers well-draining loamy soil. Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter and has good drainage to prevent waterlogging.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant during the growing season, typically every 4-6 weeks.Repotting
Repot Smilax aspera every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage and fresh loamy soil.Propagation
Propagate Smilax aspera through seeds or by dividing the rhizomes. The best time to propagate is during the spring when the plant is actively growing.Pruning
Prune the plant to control its growth and remove any dead or damaged stems. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.Toxicity
Smilax aspera is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, the thorny stems can cause minor injuries if handled carelessly.Additional
Provide support for the climbing stems of Smilax aspera, such as a trellis or a fence. Regularly check for pests and diseases, and treat them promptly to keep the plant healthy.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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