Bittersweet vine puts on its real show in fall, when clusters of berries split open to reveal bright orange-red seeds inside yellow husks, prized for wreaths and autumn arrangements.
Vigorous and twining, bittersweet needs both a male and female plant nearby to produce its signature berries, and gardeners should specifically seek out native American bittersweet, since the widely naturalized Oriental bittersweet is considered highly invasive.
Bittersweet wants full sun for the best berry production, and it needs a sturdy support since its twining vines grow vigorously and can become quite heavy. Choosing native American bittersweet (Celastrus scandens) over the invasive Oriental species helps protect surrounding woodland and trees.
Oriental bittersweet is classified as invasive across much of the U.S. and can girdle and kill mature trees it climbs — always confirm the species before planting or harvesting for decor.
