Oriental bittersweet, Asian bittersweet, Round-leaved bittersweet.
Celastrus orbiculatus
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Oriental bittersweet is occasionally planted for ornamental purposes due to its showy fruit, but it's highly invasive and should be avoided in permaculture designs. Its berries are not palatable to humans. It is a vigorous vine that can quickly overwhelm and kill other plants.
Permapeople description
Young leaves are edible.
Botanical description
Celastrus orbiculatus is a deciduous, twining vine that can reach up to 60 feet in length. The leaves are alternate, simple, and ovate to orbicular, 2-5 inches long, with finely serrated margins. Flowers are small, greenish-white, and inconspicuous, produced in axillary cymes. The fruit is a globose capsule, green when young, turning bright yellow and splitting open to reveal fleshy orange-red arils surrounding the seeds. It has smooth, gray-brown bark.
Companion planting
Due to its highly invasive nature, Oriental bittersweet is not recommended for companion planting. It will outcompete and damage desirable plants.
Propagation methods
Primarily by seed. It can also reproduce vegetatively through root suckers and layering. Cuttings are possible but may require rooting hormones.
History and traditions
Oriental bittersweet is native to East Asia (China, Japan, Korea). It was introduced to North America as an ornamental plant in the 1860s. Its vigorous growth and prolific seed production have allowed it to spread rapidly and become a significant invasive species in many regions.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs in late spring to early summer (May-June). Fruits mature in the fall (September-October) and persist through the winter. Planting is best done in spring or fall. Pruning is not recommended due to the vigorous growth and potential for further spread.