Oriental bittersweet was introduced to the US in 1860 or 1874 (according to different sources) as an ornamental vine "chiefly grown for handsome yellow fruit opening at maturity and disclosing the crimson seed" (Alfred Rehder). A century and a half later it is infamous as the most horrible invader of natural habitats capable of killing entire forests of mature trees. Once it becomes established, it is extremely tough to eradicate. Due to its unbeaten charisma and increased availability, it is still favored among lovers of winter flower arrangements.