About
The Hermaphrodite Group consists of robust, deciduous climbers that twine vigorously. The leaves can reach lengths of up to 12 cm, are rounded in shape, and transition to yellow as autumn approaches. While the flowers are not particularly noticeable, the fruits are globular, measuring around 1 cm in diameter, and split open to reveal a yellow interior and bright red seeds.
About the genus
Celastrus consists of rapidly growing deciduous vines, and occasionally evergreen varieties, characterized by their climbing or twining stems. The leaves are arranged alternately, and the flowers are small and greenish, often going unnoticed. These plants produce appealing fruits after flowering, with male and female blooms typically found on different individuals.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
- Plant type
- Climber Wall Shrub
- Habit
- Climbing
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 8-12 metres
- Spread
- 4-8 metres
- Time to full height
- 10-20 years
- Toxicity
- Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs, cats): Harmful if eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Full sun and a well-drained soil will give the best autumn colour
- Pruning
- Pruning group 11 in winter or early spring
- Propagation
- Propagate by softwood cuttings or root cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free