About

Smilax guianensis is an ornamental, evergreen Smilax from tropical South America producing the characteristic spiny, tangling stems and heart-shaped leaves of the genus. A rewarding climber for a frost-free, sheltered garden or large conservatory.

About the genus

Smilax, the greenbriers or bamboo vines, are a large genus of evergreen and deciduous shrubs and climbers forming dense, spiny thickets with heart-shaped foliage and small, greenish-white flowers followed by bright, round berries. Grown in sheltered, sunny positions.

Plant details

Suggested usesBorders, hedging, specimen planting.

Care notes

CultivationPlant in well-drained soil in sun or part shade.
PruningPrune after flowering or late winter.
PropagationPropagate by division, cuttings, or seed.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant.