Smilax spinosa — a medium houseplant, prefers partial sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Smilax spinosa

Smilax Spinosa

Updated · 10 observations
ON THIS PLANT
A note from PlantMom

Prickly green briar shows strong resistance to disease and is typically not vulnerable to illnesses. Still, it can be affected by pests and diseases present in its environment. Such infections are generally mild. Regarding upkeep, this plant needs a moderate level of care. It should be pruned on a regular basis to preserve an attractive appearance and healthy growth. Applying fertilizer can also encourage blooming. Prickly green briar is appropriate for anyone who has an outdoor area, like a garden or patio, and does not demand extensive plant-care experience. It may need increased attention when cultivated indoors.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Smilax Spinosa.

Light

The spiky green briar plant is indigenous to habitats like forest understories or rocky regions, where it naturally thrives under shadier conditions. It ideally enjoys partial sunlight, yet it can adjust to either full sunlight or complete shade, showcasing its adaptable and resilient character.

Temperature

Prickly green briar comes from tropical areas, where the climate is usually warm and humid. Consequently, it is well suited to high temperatures and moisture. It does not tolerate abrupt temperature changes and prefers a steady temperature, so it's important to prevent temperature fluctuations indoors. It generally cannot withstand cold and requires warmer conditions to grow. If the ambient temperature falls too low, the plant may stop growing or even die.

Fertilizer

The prickly green briar necessitates the highest amount of fertilizer throughout its key growth period, predominantly occurring in the spring, summer, and the beginning of fall. It's essential to fertilize in order to supply crucial nutrients that might be deficient in the soil, consequently fostering robust root and stem growth, and appealing leaves, which are prominent characteristics of this specific plant.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Vine, Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Smilax
Family
Smilacaceae
Hardiness Zone
9-11
Mature Height
3.05 m to 4.88 m
Mature Spread
2.13 m to 3.05 m
Leaf Color
Dark Green, Forest Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
White
Flower Size
0.51 cm to 0.76 cm
Bloom Time
Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Native Area
Bahamas, Cuba
PLATES
Smilax spinosa leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Smilax spinosa leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Smilax spinosa bark
PLATE 03 · bark
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

You might also like.