Black Jetbead (Rhodotypos scandens)

Key Identification Features

• Shrub, growing up to 7ft tall

• Small bunches of shiny, black berries in clusters of four

  • Highly toxic to humans if consumed

• Bright green leaves with distinctive serrations

Description

Black Jetbead can grow from 5-7 feet tall with small, black bunches of 4 berries when in seed. In early summer, the seeds may be reddish-orange before they turn a glossy black color. The flowers are small and arranged in terminal clusters that are 4-petaled and bloom in the spring. The leaves are simple, oppositely arranged, and double-toothed on the margins. The leaves are easy to identify late in the fall as they hold the light green color later than most other plants.

Native Range

Black Jetbead is originally from China, Japan, and Korea before it was brought to the United States in 1866. It is a prized ornamental plant in its native countries and was brought here for the same reason.  

Habitat and Dispersion

Jetbead prefers moist, well-drained soils in direct sunlight, but is very tolerant of all soil types and can grow just as aggressively in shade.  It is generally found by intentional planting but can travel long distances by dispersion by birds. It is mostly found along roadsides and forest edges.

Best Management Practices

Best management practice is hand pulling or digging up plants.  Chemical spray can be recommended with a 1% glyphosate solution foliar spray or a 20% cut stump herbicide application. There is no current biocontrol agent approved for Black Jetbead.

Additional Resources

WNY PRISM

NC Extension Gardner

GoBotany