American Bittersweet

(Celastrus scandens)

August 1996

Summary:

Foliage: Deciduous broadleaf
Height: Climbs 10 to 20 feet
Shape: Spreading

Summer foliage is green. The fruit consists of reddish-yellow capsules which split open in early fall exposing red berries.

Plant Needs:

Zone: 3 to 8
Light: Partial shade to full sun
Moisture: Moist to dry
Soil Type: Sandy, loam, or clay
pH Range: 3.7 to 6.5

Functions:

Suggested uses for this plant include climbing vine.

Planting Notes:

Fruit forms on female plants only. Plant both male and female plants to ensure fruit set.
Plant one male plant for every five female plants.
Tolerates most soil conditions except very wet, soggy ones.
Salt tolerant.

Care:

Plants grow rapidly, once the root system is established, and must be pruned to keep them under control.
Male plants, which do not have attractive seed pods, are more vigorous and need heavier pruning than female plants.
Provide a trellis or other support for vine to climb on.

Problems:

Euonymus scale is occasionally a problem.
Rampant growth is a problem, especially if vine is allowed to climb on shrubs and trees.
It is difficult to find labeled male and female plants.

Alternatives:

Consult local sources, including historic or public gardens and arboreta, regarding cultivars and related species that grow well in your area.

Related species:
CELASTRUS ORBICULATA (Oriental bittersweet) tends to have a more rampant growth habit. Foliage typically turns a nice yellow in fall.

Comments:

Bittersweet is grown for its attractive fruit (on female plants), which is nice in dried arrangements.
Best used in rough, open areas where it has lots of room to spread.
Once established, it is almost impossible to get rid of Bittersweet.

Additional Materials:

The following Extension publications are available through your local Extension office or directly from: Virginia Tech Extension Distribution Center 112 Landsdowne St. Blacksburg, VA 24061
#426-608 "Selecting Landscape Plants - Ornamental Vines"

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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