Smilax officinalis / Sarsaparilla Root

Smilax officinalis, commonly known as Sarsasparilla root, Honduran sarsaparilla, and Jamaican sarsaparilla, is part of the Liliaceae family.

It is a perennial trailing vine native to Mexico and Central America. The prickly vine can grow up to 50 metres long and the berries are black-purple, purple-blue and red.

Smilax officinalis is used as the basis for a soft drink frequently called sarsaparilla. It is also a primary ingredient in old fashioned-style root beer