noun
Celastrus orbiculatus; Oriental bittersweet
A deciduous climbing vine native to East Asia, known for its ornamental yellow and red fruits. The Japanese name literally means 'vine plum mock'.
秋になると、ツルウメモドキの実が黄色く色づく。
In autumn, the fruits of the Oriental bittersweet turn yellow.
ツルウメモドキは生け花によく使われる。
Oriental bittersweet is often used in ikebana.
The name ツルウメモドキ (蔓梅擬) literally means 'vine plum mock', referring to its resemblance to the plum tree and its vine-like growth habit. The exact origin of the name is uncertain.