Celastrus - Bittersweet

(Celas'trus)

DESCRIPTION: This group consists of about thirty hardy, deciduous, climbing shrubs from North America, Asia and other countries. Bittersweets, as they are commonly known, are grown mainly for their seed pods and beautiful autumn colors. They are suitable for covering arbors or other tall supports. Flowers of only one sex grow on each plant, therefore it is necessary to grow plants of both sexes in order for the female to produce the ornamental seed capsules. C. orbiculatus (Oriental Bittersweet) is a climbing plant that can grow 40 feet or more in a tree. The twining young shoots are equipped with a pair of thorns at each bud and are covered with ovate leaves up to 5 inches long. In autumn, the seed pods split open to reveal bright red seeds against a yellow lining. C. scandens (American Bittersweet) is similar to the variety above, except its seedpods are orange inside.

POTTING: Bittersweets can be grown in any reasonably fertile soil, in a sunny or shady position. They can be planted in the spring or fall.

PROPAGATION: Seeds may be sown outside in March. Shoots may be pegged down to the ground in July. Cuttings and root cuttings may also be taken.

VARIETIES: C. orbiculatus; C. scandens.

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