The vine is unmistakable: pliable, curling tendrils with copious, small waxen berries covered in a yellow outer layer that pops open to reveal bright crimson.
Bittersweet has both winding, pliable tendrils and woody branches. Note the red berries with a yellow outer layer.
Bittersweet is a popular autumn and winter decorating accent, given the ease with which it can be worked into wreaths and garland. The tough, older stems have enough structure to also be useful in standing displays like urns and arrangements.
It is important to note, however, that Oriental or Asiatic Bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) is a non-native, highly invasive plant. Since 2004, the state of Connecticut has prohibited the importation, sale, purchase, and cultivation of bittersweet. Note that this includes transportation of bittersweet, either as live plants or within arrangements. Fines for violations are set at $50 per plant. The Connecticut law can be reviewed here.
Gardeners interested in a native alternative should look for winterberry holly (Ilex verticillata). It can be found growing near water sources or at some garden centers. Its bigger, bolder berries are also showier in arrangements!
For addition information on bittersweet, please see the following resources:
- Connecticut Invasive Plant Working Group 1-Page Fact Sheet
- Plant Conservation Alliance Fact Sheet
- Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP) Press Release
When choosing berry branches for holiday arrangements, the winterberry holly is a great, native alternative to bittersweet.