American Bittersweet Plant

American bittersweet is a perennial plant commonly found along roadsides, stream banks and bluffs. It is also found in woodland areas. Bittersweet is a fast-growing vine that climbs by twisting around taller plants.

Identification

Bittersweet vines typically range from 12 to 36 feet in length. The leaves, which are egg-shaped and dark green in color, wither or die at the end of the growing season. Flowers are small and light green. Berries grow in clusters. They start out orange and then split to reveal a crimson aril (seed cover).

Planting Considerations

This vine blooms in May and June. In order to produce berries, both a male and female vine must be planted in the same location.

Habitat

Bittersweet does best in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness map zone 3 through 8. It grows equally well in sun or partial shade. American bittersweet prefers moist, well-drained soil.

References

• University of Texas at Austin Native Plant Database: Celastrus scandens
• University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service of the Week: Bittersweet
• NC State University: Native Celastrus scandens