Oriental bittersweet - Celastrus orbiculatus (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Invasive, Images, Toxic)

Oriental bittersweet

Also known as: Staff vine, Round-leaved bittersweet

Celastrus orbiculatus is a vine that grows and spreads aggressively and has been deemed an invasive species in many areas. Oriental bittersweet is an opportunistic climber and climbs any available tree or structure. The vine wraps around itself as it climbs, and has been known to completely strangle or ‘girdle’ a mature host tree.

Scientific classification

Species

Oriental bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus)

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Vine

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

12 m

Plant Height

1.5 m to 3 m

Spread

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Oriental bittersweet

Distribution of Oriental bittersweet

Distribution Map

Oriental bittersweet naturally thrives in regions across East Asia, with a distribution that encompasses temperate areas. Its presence as an introduced species extends over major regions in Eastern Europe. In certain areas beyond its native range, oriental bittersweet is sometimes thought to be a vigorous colonizer and may have an impact on local ecosystems, particularly noted in parts of Oceania and North America.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Thickets, Forest edges

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Oriental bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) is a climbing or creeping vine that is occasionally grown ornamentally for its attractive flowers and fruit. This vine makes a good addition to woodland and naturalized gardens and is useful for providing quick cover for fences, trellises, and rocks. It is best grown separately from other plant species due to its aggressive growth.

Symbolism

Protection, Healing, Truth, tenacity

Interesting Facts

Oriental bittersweet is considered very dangerous species to native ecosystems. Foresters and gardeners fear oriental bittersweet infestation and try to avoid it. Once forests are infested, it is unpredictable whether they can be recovered after heavy infestation. One way it outcompetes and kills native species is that oriental bittersweet has a growth advantage by forming mutualistic interactions with fungi that other plants do not have. These mutualistic interactions allow oriental bittersweet to use less of its own energy to get nutrients.

Name Story

Oriental bittersweet||Asian bittersweet: Bittersweet does not mean that the fruit tastes bitter and sweet. In fact, it looks sweet but it is toxic and harmful to humans and animals. This further emphasizes the saying of "the greater the beauty of the fruit, the greater the risk of consuming it". Moreover, it is originated from China and the Celastrus species is widely distributed in China, Japan, and Korea. Hence, it is called oriental bittersweet or Asian bittersweet.

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Toxicity

Oriental bittersweet is a toxic plant that poses a significant hazard to cats and dogs. Consumption of any part of the plant can result in poisoning, exhibiting symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Immediate veterinary care is crucial. Pet owners should prevent access to oriental bittersweet to ensure pet safety.

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Weed Control

This woody vine is a popular ornamental plant due to its bright-colored fruits. Oriental bittersweet spreads vigorously and is highly adaptable to various types of soil and light conditions, which means it can overtake resources of native species.

How to Control It

The best season for removal of oriental bittersweet is in late Spring or early Summer, before the plant has had a chance to produce and spread its seeds. Here are some methods to control or remove it:

Hand Pulling: The simplest way to control oriental bittersweet is to manually pull it out of the ground. Be sure to get the entire root system to prevent regrowth.
Smothering: If oriental bittersweet has taken over a large area, cover the invaded area with a thick layer of mulch or a tarp. This method is slow but effective. The plants will be deprived of light and eventually die.
Vine Cutting: Cut the vines of oriental bittersweet at the base and again a few feet up, removing a section of vine in between. This can help prevent the vines from re-rooting and continue to grow.
Biological Control: Some insects and fungi which are native to the same region as oriental bittersweet are known to feed on it. The introduction of these into the garden can help to control oriental bittersweet. It's a natural way of controlling this plant but needs to be managed carefully to prevent imbalance in the ecosystem.
Regular Monitoring: Keep a regular check on your garden. If oriental bittersweet is spotted early, taking immediate action can prevent it from taking over.

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Quickly Identify Oriental bittersweet

Distinctive red capsules with yellow casings add vibrant color.

Simple, alternate leaves with glossy surfaces and rounded toothed margins.

Twining stem pattern, often twisting conspicuously, envelops structures.

Clusters of small dioecious flowers with 5 green petals, lacking scent.

Fruit capsules mature from green to yellow, revealing scarlet fleshy interior.

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Care Guide for Oriental bittersweet

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from East Asia, oriental bittersweet thrives in moderate humidity and consistent moisture. It prefers evenly moist soil, requiring weekly watering. Although resilient to varying weather, oriental bittersweet needs well-draining soil to prevent root rot during heavy rains.

Propagation: Oriental bittersweet can be propagated through softwood cuttings or layering in spring and summer. Successful propagation is indicated by root formation and new growth. Using a serpentine or compound method during layering can enhance success rates.

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Images of Oriental bittersweet

Distribution of Oriental bittersweet

Culture

Toxicity

Weed Control

Quickly Identify Oriental bittersweet

Care Guide for Oriental bittersweet

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