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Oriental Bittersweet

Bittersweet in winter. the bittersweet branches do not have leaves but still retain their bright red berries with yellow coverings.

Other names: Chinese, Asiatic, or Asian bittersweet, round-leaved bittersweet, Celastrus orbiculatus

Where did it come from?

Oriental bittersweet was introduced in the late 1800s as an ornamental plant. It was spread by both people who favored it for holiday decorations and animals who eat the berries.

Why is it invasive?

Bitter sweet vines rapidly spread and can cover fences, bushes, and trees. Trees and other plants can be choked by climbing bittersweet.

How do you prevent its spread?

Remove it from your property. Don’t use oriental bittersweet for decorations. Don’t plant oriental bittersweet in your gardens.

Resources:

Species assessment

Invasive plant fact sheet: Oriental bittersweet

Invasive Plant Species Video: Oriental Bittersweet

Video Invasive Plant Species: Oriental Bittersweet

Seen it? Report it! Through the app or online.

Image credit: Chris Evans, University of Illinois, Bugwood.org