Source: Wikimedia Commons
Oriental bittersweet
BeginnerCelastrus orbiculatus
A deciduous climber of the spindle family whose yellow autumn fruits split in three to reveal orange-coated seeds, lasting from autumn into winter. Male and female plants are separate, so fruit needs a female plus a male pollinator.
About
Tsuru-umemodoki (Celastrus orbiculatus) is a deciduous climbing shrub of the spindle family found in mountains throughout Japan. Its name ('climbing umemodoki') comes from its resemblance in fruit and leaf to umemodoki (Ilex serrata, a holly), though the two belong to different families. In May–June it bears inconspicuous yellow-green flowers 5–6 mm across; from September to December round fruits ripen yellow and, fully ripe, split into three to reveal seeds wrapped in an orange aril. This is the main display, popular in flower arranging and wreaths, and on bonsai the fruit lasts from autumn to about February. Male and female plants are separate: choose a female for fruit and add a male pollinator—which is why bonsai shops sell male plants too. The glossy-leaved teriha form is also used in bonsai and cross-pollinates with the species. Tolerant of heat and cold, it takes pinching and pruning well and propagates easily from cuttings, layers or root cuttings. In the wild it climbs high into trees, so in a pot its shape is kept by pruning.
Size of the Oriental bittersweet
The Oriental bittersweet grows to Vines exceed 10 m and climb 5–20 m high (kept small by pruning as bonsai).
Basic Info
Origin
Japan (mountains nationwide)
Lifespan
Little data on lifespan
Size
Vines exceed 10 m and climb 5–20 m high (kept small by pruning as bonsai)
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Fertilizer (April, then June–October after fruit set; none during flowering)
Growing Tips
Light & placement
Sunny, airy position—shade reduces fruiting. From the end of the rainy season give part shade and avoid afternoon sun
Watering
Likes water: 1–2 times daily in spring, 2–3 in summer, every 2–3 days in winter. Take special care from flowering to fruit set
Temperature & overwintering
Heat- and cold-tolerant, but shelter from cold wind and keep the pot from freezing in winter
Soil & repotting
Pot-binds easily: repot every 1–2 years in March to early April before budbreak. Trimmed roots can be used as root cuttings
Fertilizer
Feed around April after budbreak, stop during flowering and fruit set, then resume June–October with ample phosphorus in autumn. Overfeeding causes leggy growth
Pruning & styling
Flower buds form at nodes of last year's shoots, so let this year's growth run. Cut over-long shoots to 2–3 nodes in late August; do main pruning between leaf fall and budbreak
Pests & cautions
Male and female plants are separate—keep a female plus a male pollinator for fruit. Old stems snap when bent, so wire only new shoots
Oriental bittersweet FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Oriental bittersweet?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QHow large does Oriental bittersweet get?
The mature size of Oriental bittersweet is Vines exceed 10 m and climb 5–20 m high (kept small by pruning as bonsai). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Oriental bittersweet?
Oriental bittersweet: watering & fertilizer — Fertilizer (April, then June–October after fruit set; none during flowering). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Oriental bittersweet?
The price of Oriental bittersweet varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed by CITES and not regulated for domestic sale. It is native to Japan—choose nursery-grown plants rather than wild-collected ones.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing search)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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