American Bittersweet
Celastrus scandens 'Mix'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Vine
Height
240 inches
Width
72 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate, keep soil moist
Humidity
Average garden humidity
Lifespan
Decades
Native To
North America
Toxicity
All parts are highly toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Celastrus scandens, commonly known as American bittersweet, is a deciduous woody vine characterized by its climbing habit, ovate green leaves, and distinctive orange-red berries that mature in the fall. The 'Mix' cultivar displays a variety of berry colors and foliage forms, making it particularly attractive for ornamental use and wildlife habitat enhancement.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-drained soil in spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Train the vine onto a trellis or fence as it grows.
- Prune to control size and shape in late winter.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every 6 weeks during growing season.
Pro Tip
Provide sturdy support for climbing and prune regularly for best shape.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during dry spells 🌱
- Prune in late winter ✂️
- Mulch to retain moisture 🌱
- Support with trellises or fences
Don't
- Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
- Ignore pruning ❌
- Plant in poorly drained soil ❌
- Allow excessive shade ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
American Bittersweet questions
What zones can American Bittersweet grow in?
American Bittersweet is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is American Bittersweet deer resistant?
Yes — American Bittersweet is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does American Bittersweet bloom?
American Bittersweet typically blooms in late spring through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does American Bittersweet need full sun?
American Bittersweet does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is American Bittersweet drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), American Bittersweet handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Celastrus to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow American Bittersweet with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
