Bittersweet-vines
What are they?
A group of woody climbers with highly attractive fruits, related to the spindle trees. The pale orange fruit cases split open to reveal bright scarlet berries inside.
Where are they found?
Usually found in open woodland or low, scrubby, coastal plant communities.
Identification
There are two species of bittersweet-vine in New Jersey (one native) which can be difficult to tell apart and are best told by the shape and size of the fruiting trusses. The native species (Celastrus scandens) is rapidly declining and may no longer occur in Cape May County.
Oriental Bittersweet-vine Celastrus orbiculatus
(Oriental Bittersweet) An introduced climbing plant, native of eastern Asia. This species was much planted as a popular garden plant for its attractive fruits, but sadly has now become a seriously invasive plant in the region. Though found here and there throughout Cape May County, it is especially common around Cape May Point. Found in open woodland and scrubby coastal dune communities. Flowers May to June. The Celastrus species are also known as Bittersweet, but that name correctly belongs to Solanum dulcamara, a member of the nightshade family. Male and female flowers are borne on separate plants.
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vigorous growths |
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