Common smilax (Smilax aspera)
Care, watering, light and tips for Common smilax on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Smilacaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Common smilax
Smilax aspera, commonly known as Rough Bindweed or Sarsaparilla, is a perennial climbing plant featuring thorny stems and glossy, heart- or arrow-shaped leaves. It produces small greenish flowers followed by conspicuous red berries in autumn and winter. It's ideal for covering walls, fences, or pergolas in Mediterranean or rustic gardens, adding a wild and natural touch.
Native range
Mediterranean region, Europe, Asia, and Africa
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade exposure and adapts to a wide range of well-drained soils, though it favors slightly acidic ones. It is drought-tolerant once established but appreciates moderate watering during dry spells. Avoid waterlogging, as it is susceptible to root rot. It does not require frequent pruning, except to control its invasive growth.
How to save a dying Common smilax
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown, wilting leaves; weak or dry stems. Dry tips.
- First aid
- Check watering (moist, not waterlogged soil), prune badly damaged leaves, ensure climbing support.
- What kills it
- Extreme over or under-watering, lack of support for its climbing growth.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. It's quite resilient but needs good environment and humidity.