Bittersweet

This may be Oriental bittersweet, Celastrus orbiculatus. To confirm, pull one out and check for an orange root. Oriental bittersweet is highly invasive. In fall it produces decorative yellow and orange seeds, which germinate profusely. The vines can choke and kill trees and shrubs. Cut it out and learn to recognize young ones as they appear in your yard and garden. However, we think it is American bittersweet, Celastrus scandens, which still grows vigorously but doesn’t produce as many seeds. The easiest way to distinguish Oriental from American Bittersweet is the location of the flowers and fruits. American Bittersweet produces its flowers and fruit in clusters at the ends of branches, while Oriental Bittersweet produces flowers and fruit at the base of each leaf. You may want to take a sample to your county cooperative extension office to determine which bittersweet it is, and get their advice on eradication.