Smilax glyciphylla -
Sweet sarsaparilla
H & W: 2m
Leaves of the sweet sarsaparilla are used to make a sweet tea. Only the soft, young leaves should be used. Likes a well-drained, shady position in the garden.
Pests and Diseases: None recorded.
Uses in the garden: Climber on a trellis or using a host tree. Also grows as a groundcover over embankments and retained areas.
Position: Part shade
Propagation: By seed but very slow to germinate. Firm cuttings can also be propagated.
Growing Range: Coastal areas of NSW and into Queensland.
Photo by Shirley McLaran under Creative Commons License
Photo by Narelle Happ
Source: Aunty Jenni Tillett and Corinne Payne. Gumbaynggirr, Bundjalung, Ngarrabul and Walbanja Yuin Women.
Born and raised on Dharawal/ Tharawal country.
*This information is a guide only. Correct identification is required before trying any native bush foods. Care must be taken to not consume plants in an environment where pesticides or herbicides may have been used.