Celastrus flagellaris
Celastrus flagellarisfam. Oleaceae
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Pl. 1B70 — Celastrus flagellaris
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IOverview
Overview
Celastrus flagellaris, known as the whip-cord staff-vine or Manchurian bittersweet in English, is a deciduous vine native to China North-Central, Japan, Korea, Manchuria, and Primorye. This plant thrives in moist conditions with light soil types—ranging from sandy to heavy clay—and prefers full sun to partial shade. It can grow up to 7.5 meters tall and is valued for its edible leaves, making it a useful addition to gardens or landscapes where its distinctive, often climbing form can be appreciated.
Quick answers
What is Celastrus flagellaris?
Celastrus flagellaris, known as the whip-cord staff-vine or Manchurian bittersweet in English, is a deciduous vine native to China North-Central, Japan, Korea, Manchuria, and Primorye. This plant thrives in moist conditions with light soil types—ranging from sandy to heavy clay—and prefers full sun to partial shade.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Celastrus flagellaris thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-8, making it suitable for temperate regions. For optimal growth, keep the soil consistently moist and provide a well-draining environment. This plant can reach heights of 7.5 meters and its edible leaves are a notable feature.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Mature size
7.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Celastrus flagellaris for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Skip in a sunny spot and follow these beginner-friendly steps.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip plant, garden gloves, trowel, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip in spring or early fall when the weather is mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with well-draining soil. Amend heavy clay soil with sand for better drainage.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip from its pot to your garden bed, ensuring the root ball is at ground level.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade and regular watering. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Skip in late winter to remove dead branches and encourage new growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without amending, neglecting winter protection in colder zones.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Celastrus flagellaris are edible and can be consumed fresh or cooked. They are typically prepared by steaming or boiling before being added to dishes. Skip the raw consumption as they may require cooking for better digestibility.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 5 native
Asia3 regions
native (3)ChinaJapanSouth Korea
Broader regions
native:Primorye
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
4 related
See also
4 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Oleaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Oleaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
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