Quick answer: American bittersweet (Celastrus scandens) is native to 11 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 15 Sep 2026.
Where it's native
Listed in the register as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade, Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | High water, Dry-Moist |
| Soil | Well-drained soils, circumneutral pH |
| Bloom | Bloom May-Jun |
| Height | Vine up to 50 ft |
| Wildlife value | Attracts birds with showy fruit, autumn/winter food source |
All parts, seeds: low toxicity if eaten. Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, loss of consciousness
none noted for this native species itself; being displaced/replaced in Northeast by invasive non-native Asiatic bittersweet (C. orbiculatus)
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 15 Sep 2026
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