PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN LCInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Least Concern — widespread and abundant; not at immediate risk of extinction.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Smilax aspera
Sarsaparilla / Rough Bindweed
L., 1753
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
Smilax aspera is a perennial woody climbing plant, iconic for its angular stems armed with sharp prickles and its rhizomatous roots of high medicinal value. Its stems can reach up to 15 meters in length, zigzagging through vegetation using tendrils that arise from the base of the petioles. The leaves are persistent, leathery, and heart- or arrow-shaped, often with whitish spots and prickly margins. The flowers are small, yellowish-white or greenish, grouped in axillary umbels that emit a sweet fragrance. The fruit is a globose berry that ripens from bright red to black, forming striking clusters. It is an architectural species that creates dense, impenetrable thickets, fundamental for the protection of small fauna in Mediterranean and transition ecosystems.
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Anonymous Curator
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Under Review
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
TaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Tracheophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Liliopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Liliales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Smilacaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Smilax
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.L., 1753
Record Completeness
91%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Native
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Stable
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
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Growth HabitPhysical form and structure of the plant: tree, shrub, herb, vine, epiphyte, aquatic, etc.
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Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.
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Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
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Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
It thrives in a wide variety of habitats, from maquis and dry scrublands to wet forest edges and oak woodlands. It is highly drought-resistant and prefers well-drained, often stony soils, with good sun exposure or partial shade. It is naturally distributed across the Mediterranean basin, Africa, and Asia, having naturalized in various regions of the Americas.Light & Water NeedsSunlight intensity and moisture levels this plant needs to grow and reproduce successfully. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
It is a fundamental species for the structure of the understory and forest edge. By forming dense tangles, it creates 'islands of biodiversity' where birds and small mammals can nest and hide from predators. Its flowers are an important source of nectar for bees and syrphid flies, while its berries are a critical winter food source for migratory and resident birds.Toxicity / UsesToxic compounds present and their documented effects on humans or other organisms. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!Physical Measures
Length (cm)
500.0 - 1500.0 cm
Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.
Flower Photos (Max 2)
No imageFruit Photos (Max 2)
No imageEvolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
Double Stipular Tendrils: Unlike other climbers, Smilax has a pair of tendrils emerging from the base of the petiole (modified stipules). This adaptation allows for an extremely firm multidirectional anchor, enabling it to climb smooth surfaces or intertwine in the scrub with great efficiency.
Prickly Stems and Leathery Leaves: The presence of recurved prickles protects the plant from large herbivores and aids in the climbing process by acting as hooks. Its hardened leaves reduce transpiration, allowing it to colonize arid environments.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Overexploitation of roots: Intensive use of its rhizomes in traditional medicine and the beverage industry can deplete local populations if sustainable harvesting is not practiced.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
The original Sarsaparilla ingredient: Before modern sodas, the roots of this plant were used to create a refreshing and tonic beverage popular in the 19th century, valued for its supposed blood-purifying properties.
Smurfs' Food: In contemporary popular culture (specifically in The Smurfs comics), sarsaparilla berries are the favorite food of these creatures.