Euonymus

449 Views
Euonymus

Fall brings out the best color in this versatile group of plants.

Euonymus Overview

DESCRIPTIONThis group of plants consists of trees and low-growing shrubs with variable habits that make them valuable in different garden designs. Perhaps the most familiar species is the burning bush, which is widely planted for its brilliant red fall color. Many other euonymus varieties also feature stunning fall color, as well as showy fruits—typically hot pink and orange—or their sprawling evergreen habit.
GENUS NAMEEuonymus
COMMON NAMEEuonymus
PLANT TYPEShrub
LIGHTPart Sun, Shade, Sun
HEIGHT3 to 8 feet
WIDTHnull to 15 feet
FLOWER COLORWhite, Yellow
FOLIAGE COLORBlue/Green, Chartreuse/Gold
SEASON FEATURESColorful Fall Foliage, Winter Interest
SPECIAL FEATURESAttracts Birds, Low Maintenance
ZONES4, 5, 6, 7, 8
PROPAGATIONDivision, Seed, Stem Cuttings
PROBLEM SOLVERSDeer Resistant, Good For Privacy, Groundcover, Slope/Erosion Control
 

Colorful Combinations

Many species of euonymus are green; however, most of the low-growing types feature beautiful variegated foliage, most notably Euonymus fortunei. These plants have a unique habit that can be trained to be rounded shrubs, left to ramble, or even climb. With their bright gold, white, green, and sometimes pink foliage, they brighten a garden.

 

Many of the green varieties don’t begin to shine until fall. Once fall’s cool nights arrive, euonymus puts on a spectacular display of glowing oranges, reds, yellows, and burgundies. Others also have unique fruits with bright pink skin that open to reveal a bright orange interior.

 

Euonymus Care Must-Knows

With around 175 species in this family, requirements are going to vary. Preferred soil conditions, however, remain fairly consistent. Ideally, euonymus should be planted in well-drained, medium-moisture soil. Wet soil can cause rotting and other issues. Once established, euonymus is drought tolerant.

 

Euonymus varieties require different sun exposures. Many of the larger tree and shrub types, especially those with fall color, require more sun. While full sun is best, some varieties such as low-growing and variegated types tolerate shade. Many of the shrubby and low-growing types require trimming to keep them looking their best.

 

The one major pest is euonymus scale. These small insects cluster on the old growth, undersides of the leaves, and the stems of E. fortunei types. The gray or white pests can be identified by their pear-shaped bodies. The best solution is to remove infected plants, especially heavily infested limbs. Even after removal, it may be necessary to follow up with a systemic insecticide to prevent future issues.

 

An important thing to note is that there are several euonymus species that have become invasive in native forests, especially burning bush and many E. fortunei types. Before planting any of these, check with local authorities to determine if this plant is considered invasive in your area.

 

More Varieties of Euonymus

Eastern wahoo

Eastern wahoo Euonymus atropurpureus
DAN PIASSICK

Euonymus atropurpureus is a delightful North American native shrub that offers bold purple fall color and attractive scarlet-red fruits in the fall. It grows 20 feet tall and 25 feet wide. Zones 3-7

 

‘Coloratus’ wintercreeper

wintercreeper Euonymus fortunei 'Coloratus'
CYNTHIA HAYNES

Euonymus fortunei ‘Coloratus’ is a groundcover or climbing variety featuring deep green leaves that lighten to pink or rose in fall. Zones 4-9

 

Burning Bush

Burning Bush Euonymus alatus
ADAM ALBRIGHT

Euonymus alatus bears leaves that turn a bold flame red in fall with reddish-purple berries. It can grow 20 feet tall and 10 feet wide. Zones 4-9

 

‘Silver Queen’ wintercreeper

wintercreeper Euonymus fortunei 'Silver Queen'
CYNTHIA HAYNES

Euonymus fortunei ‘Silver Queen’ is a groundcover that can climb walls or other structures (it can climb as high as 20 feet) and features green leaves accented with white. Zones 5-9

 

‘Emerald ‘N Gold’ wintercreeper

wintercreeper Euonymus fortunei 'Emerald 'N Gold'
JERRY PAVIA

Euonymus fortunei ‘Emerald ‘N Gold’ is a low shrub that sports gold-color foliage edged in green. The leaves turn pink in cold winters. It grows 3 feet tall and wide. Zones 5-9

foxany
Author: foxany

Leave a Reply

450 Views