Smilax brasiliensis, commonly known as Sarsaparilla or Bamboo Vine, is a deciduous perennial vine native to the tropical rainforests and secondary growth forests of South America. It can rapidly grow to a height of 10-15 feet (3-4.6 meters) and a width of 3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 meters). The vine is characterized by its woody stems, which can resemble bamboo, and its foliage that provides dense cover. It produces small, yellow or green flowers that are typically inconspicuous and bloom in the spring. The flowers are not particularly showy, but they do attract pollinators. Sarsaparilla is known for its medicinal properties, as its roots have been used traditionally to make sarsaparilla soda and herbal supplements.

In cultivation, Sarsaparilla is valued for its rapid growth and dense foliage, which makes it an excellent choice for creating natural screens or covering unsightly areas. It thrives in part shade, preferring medium or fast-draining clay, loam, or sandy soils. While it requires medium amounts of water, it is relatively low maintenance once established. Gardeners should be aware that Smilax species can become invasive if not managed properly, and their thorny stems can make handling difficult.CC BY-SA 4.0