The tree shrike (bot. Celastrus) is not a single plant from a botanical point of view, but is rather a genus from the spindle family. The approximately 30 different species are native to Asia, America and Australia.
Is the tree shrike hardy and easy to care for in winter?
The tree shrike is hardy and can withstand temperatures down to -28 °C. No special care is required in winter, such as winter protection or fertilizer. Berries remain on the bush even in winter and serve as food for birds.
Due to the large distribution area, the differences are sometimes considerable; some species are evergreen, others shed their leaves in autumn. The climatic conditions are also not the same. You can find tree shrikes in temperate climates, but also in the tropics. The location varies from dry thickets to humid forests. However, tree shrikes are considered to be very hardy.
How do I care for my tree shrike in winter?
Unlike many other hardy plants, the tree shrike does not require any winter protection because it can tolerate temperatures down to -28 °C. If its leaves have fallen off, it needs hardly any water and no fertilizer at all.
Pruning in autumn is not necessary. Allow the climbing bush to grow until it is the size you want. Then you can prune it virtually any time you want.
Can I use the glowing berries somehow?
The decorative berries of the tree shrike are slightly poisonous, like all other parts of the plant. So they shouldn't be on your menu. However, the berries serve as winter food for birds. If you would like to use branches with the bright orange to red fruits for a colorful fall bouquet, make sure that no small children have access to the bouquet.
But in order for you to be able to discover berries on your tree shrike, you absolutely need at least one male and one female plant. Depending on the species, the fruits ripen from July or August and decorate the otherwise bare climbing bush well into the winter.
The most important things in brief:
- hardy
- depending on the species, it tolerates frost down to approx. – 28 °C
- the round-leaved tree shrike sheds its leaves in autumn
- Berries stay on the plant throughout the winter
- Twigs with berries good for autumn bouquets
Tip
The bright berries are a pretty eye-catcher, and not just in the garden. They will also decorate your living room in a colorful autumn bouquet.
