Skaneateles Conservation Area/Invasive species/Celastrus orbiculatus

<< Prohibited invasive plants at the SCA

Celastrus (bittersweet)
There are two bittersweet (Celastrus) species present in the vicinity of the Skaneateles Conservation Area (SCA):
 * Celastrus orbiculatus (oriental bittersweet) is very highly invasive vine from eastern Asian and is prohibited from being sold in New York State
 * Celastrus scandens (American bittersweet) is a fairly rare native vine

These two species have been known to hybridize, which could cause the further decline of native American bittersweets.

Because of their colorful persistent fruit, both of these vines have been used for making holiday decorations. This practice has been linked to the spread of oriental bittersweet, so finding native sources for these decorations in now encouraged.

The native American bittersweet has been observed at the SCA, west of the part of the transfer station where yard waste is dumped. Because this plant is so rare in our area, it may be reasonable to assume that seeds had been transported by birds or other creatures the short distance from the transfer station.

Invasiveness ranking for Celastrus orbiculatus (oriental bittersweet)
Celastrus orbiculatus (oriental bittersweet) is ranked as very highly invasive, with a relative maximum score of 86.67% and is prohibited by New York State law.

Ecological impact (23/30)
1.1. Impact on Natural Ecosystem Processes and System-Wide Parameters: Influences ecosystem processes to a minor degree (3/10)


 * Large stands of Celastrus orbiculatus over-top and shade entire communities, especially meadows and young forests, and reduce light levels.


 * Raises soil pH and soil nitrification rates.


 * Changes fire regime by acting as a ladder fuel and carrying fire into canopies.

1.2. Impact on Natural Community Structure: Major alteration of structure (10/10)


 * Will girdle and kill trees and shrubs that it grows on.

1.3. Impact on Natural Community Composition: Causes major alteration in community composition (10/10)


 * Displaces the native vegetation in the areas it covers.

1.4. Impact on other species or species groups: Unknown (0/0)