Prickly-ivy - Smilax (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Prickly-ivy

Prickly-ivy comprise of a large and diverse group of woody, climbing shrubs and vines. They are damage tolerant, easily regrowing after being cut or burned by fire. Several species are made into important culinary ingredients used in sodas, soups, and stews and even have edible berries and roots. Prickly-ivy are ecologically important as well - their leaves and berries provide food for insects, birds, and mammals, while their prickly vegetation provides cover for small animals hiding from predators. This genus is named after the woodland nymph Smilax of Greek mythology, who turned into a brambly vine.

Scientific classification

Genus

Prickly-ivy (Smilax)

Family

Greenbrier

Order

Lilies, supplejacks and allies

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Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Prickly-ivy

Species

Rough bindweed Saw greenbrier Roundleaf greenbrier Cat greenbrier Bristly greenbrier China root Earleaf Greenbrier Smooth Carrionflower Laurel Greenbrier Blue Ridge Carrionflower Sarsparilla vine Upright carrionflower Smilax trinervula Bearded smilax Smilax scobinicaulis Warty greenbrier Rough bindweed Taiwan greenbrier

Care Guide for Prickly-ivy

Every 3 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Prickly-ivy thrives in high humidity with periods of heavy rainfall. It tolerates moderate drought, storing water for dry spells. Water every three weeks, allowing slight soil dryness. Typically grown indoors, prickly-ivy is an evergreen needing consistent moisture for year-round foliage.

Propagation: Propagation of prickly-ivy involves seed sowing, cuttings, and division, requiring adequate light, temperature, and well-draining soil. Key steps include scarifying seeds, managing moisture, using semi-hardwood cuttings, and careful handling of rhizomes. The process presents moderate difficulty, particularly with slow seed germination and spines.

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Learn More About Prickly-ivy

How to Grow and Care

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