Smilax excelsa — an easy houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Smilax excelsa

Smilax Excelsa

Updated · 25 observations
ON THIS PLANT
A note from PlantMom

Rough bindweed is resistant to disease and is generally not prone to illnesses. In terms of care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. Planted outdoors it needs minimal watering, and larger specimens usually do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they have finished blooming. Rough bindweed is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or deck, and does not demand much gardening experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Smilax Excelsa.

Light

Rough bindweed grows best in abundant sunlight but can tolerate both moderate and low light. Still, insufficient or excessive light can impair its health. Originating in brightly lit habitats, it has adapted to manage varying light intensities at different stages of growth.

Temperature

Rough bindweed grows best in temperatures from 59 to 100 °F (15 to 38 ℃). It is native to temperate regions, which accounts for its preference for moderate warmth. Seasonal adjustment recommendations include providing shade during the hotter months to help regulate temperature.

Fertilizer

To encourage healthy growth, fertilize your Rough bindweed in early spring. Regular fertilization boosts overall health, producing vigorous growth, increased resilience in challenging conditions, and improved resistance to pests and diseases. Keep a consistent fertilization schedule for your Rough bindweed to ensure vibrant foliage with deep color and a lush appearance.

Pruning

The larger smilax is a robust climbing plant characterized by thorny stems and heart-shaped leaves. To maintain its size and encourage healthy growth, it's best to prune it in early spring. This involves removing dead stems to improve circulation and rejuvenate the plant. Proper pruning enhances the plant's overall health, encourages fruiting, and makes it easier to manage. Make sure to always use clean, sharp tools to avoid causing any damage.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Vine, Shrub
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Smilax
Family
Smilacaceae
Hardiness Zone
8-11
Mature Height
0.91 m to 3.96 m
Mature Spread
3.05 m
Leaf Color
Dark Green, Forest Green
Leaf Type
Semi-evergreen
Flower Color
White
Flower Size
0.76 cm to 1.02 cm
Bloom Time
Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer
Planting Time
Spring, Autumn
Harvest Time
Mid summer, Late summer
Native Area
Sri Lanka, Libya, Turkey, India, Montenegro, Eritrea, Pakistan, Slovenia, Morocco, Croatia, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Portugal, Nepal, France, Tunisia, Zambia, Cyprus, Laos, Greece, Lebanon, Serbia, China, Syria, Italy, Spain, Myanmar, Bhutan, Iran, Albania, Algeria, Congo (DRC)
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Larger Smilax en Anatolian sarsaparilla
PLATES
Smilax excelsa leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Smilax excelsa leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Smilax excelsa flower
PLATE 03 · flower
Smilax excelsa fruit
PLATE 04 · fruit
Smilax excelsa fruit
PLATE 05 · fruit
Smilax excelsa other
PLATE 06 · other
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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