500g American Bittersweet Seeds - Celastrus scandens - Native Vine with Orange Berries

American Bittersweet (Celastrus scandens) is a native North American vine prized for its vibrant orange-red berries that persist into winter. This vigorous climber adds beauty to fences, trellises, and arbors, and its berries are a valuable food source for birds. The vine is dioecious, meaning male and female flowers are on separate plants, so both are needed for fruit production.

In spring, small greenish flowers appear, followed by clusters of bright orange berries in fall. The foliage turns yellow in autumn, adding seasonal interest. American Bittersweet is adaptable to various soil types and is relatively low-maintenance once established.

Plant Features

• Native vine with vibrant orange-red berries
• Attracts birds and wildlife
• Fast-growing and adaptable
• Provides fall and winter interest
• Dioecious species; plant both male and female for berries

Growing Information

• Botanical Name: Celastrus scandens
• Plant Type: Perennial vine
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Well-drained, adaptable to various soil types
• Water Requirements: Moderate; keep soil moist but not waterlogged
• Growth Habit: Climbing vine
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-8
• Bloom Season: Spring to early summer
• Mature Height: 15-20 feet
• Spacing: 3-5 feet apart

Planting & Care

To grow American Bittersweet from seed, start seeds indoors in late winter or sow directly outdoors in fall after stratification. Scarify seeds by nicking the seed coat and soak in water for 24 hours before planting. Sow seeds about 1/4 inch deep in a well-draining seed-starting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist and maintain a temperature around 70°F (21°C). Germination can be slow and uneven, taking several weeks to months.

Once seedlings are large enough, transplant them to their permanent location after the last frost. Provide a sturdy trellis or support for the vine to climb. Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish a deep root system. Prune as needed to control growth and remove dead or damaged wood. Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

What's Included

500mg of Celastrus scandens seeds (American Bittersweet).