Smilax aspera

Smilax aspera, also known as rough bindweed, is a species of plant in the genus Smilax. This genus, comprising about 300 species, includes woody or herbaceous vines commonly called catbriers and greenbriers, found in tropical and temperate regions worldwide. Smilax aspera is a European plant whose roots yield a type of sarsaparilla.12

Sarsaparilla itself is an aromatic flavoring agent derived from the roots of various Smilax vines. Historically used as a tonic, it now primarily flavors medicines and beverages like root beer. The plants are perennial climbing or trailing vines with prickly stems and leathery leaves. The young shoots of S. aspera are also edible.31