Celastrus punctatus, commonly known as Oriental Bittersweet, is an evergreen vine native to temperate regions of East Asia, including China, Taiwan, and Japan. It is typically found in a variety of habitats such as forest edges, woodlands, and thickets. This vine can grow to a height of 10-15 feet (3-4.6 meters) and is known for its ability to climb with the aid of tendrils. The flowers of Celastrus punctatus are small, yellow, and rather inconspicuous, blooming in late spring to early summer. The plant is more noted for its attractive, spherical yellow fruits that split open to reveal red seeds, which persist into winter and provide visual interest.

Oriental Bittersweet is valued for its ornamental fruit, which is used in floral arrangements and wreath-making. It is adaptable to a range of cultivation conditions, tolerating both full sun and part shade. It prefers medium to fast-draining loam soils and requires medium amounts of water. While it can be a beautiful addition to gardens, it is important to note that in some regions, particularly in North America, it has become invasive, outcompeting native plants and disrupting local ecosystems. Gardeners should be cautious and consider local regulations and alternative non-invasive species for planting.CC BY-SA 4.0