1a widely distributed climbing shrub with hooks and tendrils. Several South American species yield sarsaparilla from their roots, and some are cultivated as ornamentals.
Genus Smilax, family Liliaceae
2a climbing asparagus, the decorative foliage of which is used by florists.
Asparagus (or Myrsiphyllum) asparagoides, family Liliaceae
Origin:
late 16th century: via Latin from Greek, literally 'bindweed'
