// SPECIES PROFILE · VINE · NATIVE

American bittersweet

Celastrus scandens

American bittersweet (Celastrus scandens) is a vine in the — family. Native range includes AR, KS, MO, OK. Hardy in zones 2a–10a. Mature size 20'–50'. Blooms May–Jun.

// QUICK FACTS

Family: —
Group: vine
Native range: Native to 39 U.S. states, including AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, GA…
USDA hardiness: Zones 2a–10a
Mature size: 20'–50'
Sun: Part shade
Water: High · moisture-loving
Bloom: May–Jun
Wildlife value: Pollinator and wildlife support
Ecological role: native species profile

American bittersweet (Celastrus scandens) — *Celastrus scandens* — American bittersweet. Photo by The Cosmonaut via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.5 ca).

Field Notes

[ growing · ecology · siting · care ]

American bittersweet (Celastrus scandens) is a vine in the — family. Native range includes AR, KS, MO, OK. Hardy in zones 2a–10a. Mature size 20'–50'. Blooms May–Jun.

Why it's on this list: native species profile. Native-range data from the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (NPIN), cross-checked against iNaturalist observations. Part of Rooted Revival's regional native plant catalog — true natives for Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri and Kansas.

Companion Planting

[ guild · polyculture · cross-layer pairings ]

In the same native range, american bittersweet pairs naturally with: American hogpeanut (Amphicarpaea bracteata var. bracteata), American hogpeanut (Amphicarpaea bracteata), American hogpeanut (Amphicarpaea bracteata var. comosa), Hedge false bindweed (Calystegia sepium).