Celastrus orbiculatus 'Autumn Revolution'
vine

Autumn Revolution American Bittersweet

Celastrus orbiculatus 'Autumn Revolution'

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Vine

Height

216 inches

Width

72 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Toxic to humans if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

A vigorous, deciduous, twining woody vine native to North America. Valued for its clusters of showy orange-red berries that persist into winter. A unique cultivar of American Bittersweet that has perfect flowers, meaning it is self-pollinating and does not need a separate male plant to produce its large, abundant fruit.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides lush green foliage and vibrant fall colors, creating striking visual interest.
Practical UsesVigorous growth makes it an excellent privacy screen or fence cover.
Ecological BenefitsSupports local pollinators with its flowers and provides habitat for birds.

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a sturdy trellis or fence for support.
  2. Tuck cuttings or seeds into moist soil in early spring.
  3. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
  4. Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead growth.
  5. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
  6. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Provide sturdy support early; this vigorous vine can quickly overtake structures.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Tuck cuttings into moist soil for propagation 🌱
  • Prune in late winter to shape the vine
  • Water consistently during dry spells
  • Fertilize in spring and summer

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don’t neglect pruning; it keeps the vine manageable
  • Avoid planting near delicate plants that can be overshadowed
  • Refrain from allowing the soil to dry out completely

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Harvest
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vigorous climbing vine for trellisesDense privacy screen with lush foliageDecorative cover for fences and walls

Companion Plants

Hosta Ferns Astilbe Japanese Maple Hydrangea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Autumn Revolution American Bittersweet questions

What zones can Autumn Revolution American Bittersweet grow in?

Autumn Revolution 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 Autumn Revolution American Bittersweet deer resistant?

Yes β€” Autumn Revolution American Bittersweet is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Autumn Revolution American Bittersweet bloom?

Autumn Revolution American Bittersweet typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Autumn Revolution American Bittersweet need full sun?

Autumn Revolution American Bittersweet does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Autumn Revolution American Bittersweet drought tolerant?

Yes β€” once established (usually after the first full season), Autumn Revolution American Bittersweet handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Autumn Revolution 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.