Oriental bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) berries remain on the bare stems in winter until eaten by wildlife.
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Updated: February 6, 2026
Oriental bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) is a woody perennial vine (liana) native to Eastern Asia. It was introduced to the U.S. in the mid-1800s for ornamental use and erosion control, and has since become invasive.
Physical features of Oriental bittersweet
Oriental bittersweet is a deciduous twining vine, wrapping its main stems tightly around a support in order to climb. It belongs to the same plant family as Euonymus, a trait seen in the similar-looking fruits (berries). It blooms in late spring, and fruits ripen late summer to early autumn and last into winter. Birds eat the berries and disperse the seeds. People who cut stems to make arrangements with the berries can also spread the plant if the debris is not properly disposed of.
Growth rate and habit: rapid growth rate (several feet per year); twining vine that wraps around other plants or structures as the stems grow upwards (no tendrils or aerial roots)
Typical mature size: greatly dependent on the height and width of its support, though climbing stems can easily reach 60 or more feet if scaling a tall tree
Blooms: inconspicuous small clusters of 5-petaled greenish flowers
Leaves: simple (not divided into leaflets) with finely toothed margins; rounded to obovate in shape; alternate arrangement on the stems; glossy
Roots: orange (for plants older than seedlings)
Removing Oriental bittersweet
Cutting the vine down will not eradicate Oriental bittersweet unless additional or follow-up measures are taken. Cut vines can easily regrow from the stump or pieces of the root system that are not removed. The most efficient and effective removal method is to use systemic herbicide to kill the roots.
Mechanical control
Vines cut down before the application of (or in lieu of) herbicide that then regrow can be managed without the use of chemicals, but the process takes more effort and time. Any new sprouts must be removed promptly so they do not have time to make and store energy reserves for regrowth. Be vigilant for sucker or seedling growth to remove down as soon as it appears. Repeat the process until the roots are exhausted of energy and cannot generate any more sprouts.
Chemical control
A systemic herbicide applied to the leaves, the bark on the main stem, or the fresh-cut stump will be absorbed and kill the roots. This process takes time and may require repeat attempts to achieve full control. Commonly-used systemic ingredients include glyphosate and triclopyr. Follow all product label directions for use.
Applications of systemic herbicide are most effective when applied from midsummer to early fall. This period of time is when deciduous perennial plants move carbohydrates down into their roots for winter; applied herbicide will more easily be transported by sap flow.
