American Bittersweet (Celastrus scandens) , seeds from Marie-Victorin
Celastrus scandens is a vigorous and spectacular climbing plant, prized for its bright yellow and red fruits that add a splash of vibrant color in the fall and winter. Ideal for dressing up fences, trellises, and pergolas, it creates a striking ornamental effect while providing verticality and structure to landscapes. Hardy and robust, this climbing plant adapts easily to a variety of environments, but must be grown with care to prevent it from smothering trees or smaller plants.
Spread : 3 to 6 meters
Plant height : 4 to 8 meters
Quantity per pack : 15 seeds
Companion plants : Virginia creeper, honeysuckle, clematis
Enemy plants : small plants, fragile trees (can suffocate them)
Hardiness zone : 3
Exposure : sun, partial shade
Moisture : fresh, well-drained soil
Sowing instructions : Soak the seeds for 24 hours in boiled water (for 5 minutes) then cooled. Mix the seeds with an equal volume of sand or moist vermiculite and place them in an airtight plastic bag. Leave them in the refrigerator for at least 90 days (cold stratification). Then sow directly in the desired location as soon as the temperature becomes suitable or in the fall for natural germination in the spring.
The American Bittersweet is perfect for adding a colorful and sustainable vertical touch to gardens, especially in the off-season. With its bright fruits and ability to transform structures, it is ideal for country gardens or spaces requiring height and movement.
