American Bittersweet vs Somerset Grape - TreeTime.ca

American Bittersweet vs Somerset Grape

Celastrus scandens

Vitis Somerset

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON

American Bittersweet
Somerset Grape

American Bittersweet is a deciduous, woody, perennial vine with striking orange to yellow berries that persist into winter. Indigenous to North America, this vine has become so rare it is now considered a protected species.

Excellent for naturalization projects, American Bittersweet attracts birds and other wildlife. Please keep in mind that the plant is toxic to humans and should not be ingested. To ensure the attractive berries are produced, cross-pollination between a male and female plant must occur.

The Somerset Grape is a cold-hardy variety that is sweet, with a hint of a strawberry taste and tender skin, making them excellent for fresh eating. The grapes grow throughout the summer and go from a light pink and deepen in color as they ripen. The grapes will be at their peak sweetness in mid to late September, making that the best time for harvest.

The Somerset Grape is considered a seedless variety. Occasionally the fruit will contain seeds, but they are soft and barely noticeable. The grapes themselves are a bit smaller than the average size you’d find in the grocery store, however the cluster is compact and quite big. This vine is best supported with a trellis.

Note: We do not ship grape vines to BC due to regulatory restrictions from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

American Bittersweet Quick Facts

Somerset Grape Quick Facts

Lowest Price: $25.99
Zone: 3a
Zone: 3a
Height: 6 m (20 ft)
Height: 1.5 m (5 ft)
Spread: 1.8 m (6 ft)
Spread: 1.5 m (5 ft)
Moisture: normal
Moisture: dry, normal
Light: full sun
Light: full sun
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no
Berries: red-orange, toxic to mammals
Fruit size: 2.0g
Harvest: early to mid September
Flowers: small white clusters
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: fast
Life span: medium
Life span: medium
Suckering: medium
Suckering: none



Toxicity: All parts of plant are toxic to humans