Celastrus

Description

Celastrus is a genus of woody vines and shrubs that belong to the family Celastraceae. It is native to Asia, Africa, and North America. The genus has around 30 species that are characterized by their woody stems, alternate leaves, and small, inconspicuous flowers. The fruit of Celastrus is a capsule that splits open to reveal bright red or orange seeds.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Celastrales
Family	Celastraceae
Genus	Celastrus

Appearance

Celastrus can be either deciduous or evergreen. The leaves are simple, alternate, and have serrated margins. The flowers are small, greenish-white, and appear in clusters in the axils of the leaves. The fruit is a capsule that contains bright red or orange seeds that are covered with a fleshy aril. The stems of Celastrus can be woody or herbaceous and can climb by twining or by tendrils.

Care Guide

Celastrus can be grown in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types but prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH. The plant requires moderate watering and should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer. Celastrus is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Celastrus is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including scale insects, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Scale insects and spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Powdery mildew can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.

Habitat

Celastrus is native to Asia, Africa, and North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and rocky slopes. It is often found growing as a vine on trees and shrubs.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Celastrus be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Celastrus can be grown in containers, but it will require support to climb.

Q: Is Celastrus toxic to pets?

A: Yes, the seeds of Celastrus are toxic to pets if ingested.

Q: Does Celastrus attract pollinators?

A: Celastrus is not known to be a significant attractor of pollinators.

Q: How often should Celastrus be fertilized?

A: Celastrus should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer.

Related Plants

• Celastrus orbiculatus
• Celastrus scandens
• Celastrus angulatus
• Celastrus aculeatus

References

• Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: Their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Pub Llc.
• Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Celastrus. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j870
• USDA. (n.d.). Celastrus. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CELAS