Native Plant Alternatives to Celastrus orbiculatus (Oriental Bittersweet)

Celastrus orbiculatus, commonly known as Oriental bittersweet, is considered an invasive species in many regions. This deciduous woody perennial vine, native to East Asia, was introduced to North America in the 1860s as an ornamental plant.

It has since spread widely and is now considered a significant invasive species in the eastern and midwestern United States. Oriental bittersweet is known for its vigorous growth and ability to climb high into the canopy, where it can smother trees and shrubs and restrict their access to light, effectively killing them. Its seeds are spread by birds and other animals, and it can also reproduce vegetatively, making it difficult to control.

Oriental Bittersweet is listed in the Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States.

Due to its detrimental effects on native plant communities and habitats, it is advisable not to plant Oriental bittersweet and to remove it where possible. Control methods can include mechanical removal, such as cutting and pulling, as well as the application of appropriate herbicides.

According to the U.S Forest Service, Invasive species have contributed to the decline of 42% of U.S. endangered and threatened species and 18% of U.S. endangered or threatened species. Invasive species compete directly with native species for moisture, sunlight, nutrients, and space. They displace and alter native plant communities, degrade wildlife habitat and water quality, and potentially lead to increased soil erosion.

The federal government has estimated that nearly 25 percent of the 20,000 plant species native to North America are at risk of extinction, many of these through habitat loss. You can help reverse this trend by planting great native plants in your garden.

A plant is considered native if it occurs naturally in a particular region or ecosystem without human introduction. There are many benefits to growing native plants. First, these plants are better adapted to soils, moisture, and weather than exotic plants that evolved in other parts of the world. They need fewer fertilizers and pesticides or use less water. Second, they are unlikely to escape and become invasive, destroying natural habitats. Third, they support wildlife, providing shelter and food for native birds and insects, while exotic plants do not.