Celastrus orbiculatus

Celastrus orbiculatus, commonly known as Oriental Bittersweet, is a woody vine of the family Celastraceae. Native to East Asia, it is considered an invasive species in many parts of North America.

Description

Celastrus orbiculatus is a deciduous, climbing woody vine that can grow up to 60 feet in length. It has simple, alternate leaves that are orbicular (round) and finely toothed. The plant produces small, greenish-white flowers in the spring, which give way to distinctive yellow-orange berries in the fall.

Distribution and Habitat

Originally native to East Asia, including China, Korea, and Japan, Celastrus orbiculatus has been introduced to North America, where it has become an invasive species. It is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, fields, and along roadsides.

Ecology

Celastrus orbiculatus is a vigorous grower, often outcompeting native vegetation. It can form dense mats that cover other plants and trees, blocking out sunlight and potentially killing the plants underneath. The plant's berries are eaten by birds, which then disperse the seeds in their droppings.

Control

Efforts to control the spread of Celastrus orbiculatus include mechanical removal and the use of herbicides. However, these methods can be labor-intensive and may not be completely effective, as the plant can regrow from root fragments.

Uses

In its native range, Celastrus orbiculatus has been used in traditional medicine. The seeds are used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other conditions.

See Also

• Invasive species in the United States
• Celastraceae
• Traditional Chinese Medicine

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