The dried root or root-stalk of the smilax, a genus of shrubby climbing plants native to tropical America.

Sarsaparilla

The dried root or root-stalk of the smilax, a genus of shrubby climbing plants native to tropical America.

"Branch of Sarsaparilla (Smilax medica), with fruits." -Whitney, 1911

Sarsaparilla

"Branch of Sarsaparilla (Smilax medica), with fruits." -Whitney, 1911