Euonymus alatus

Euonymus alatus (also known as winged spindle or burning bush) is an ornamental shrub highly appreciated for spectacular fall color and for its decorative form.

 General description

Euonymus alatus is a deciduous shrub with slow to moderate growth, which is notable for its its "winged" branches, provided with protruding cork edges. In spring and summer it has deep green foliage, and in autumn it turns into a bright red, extremely decorative.

 Dimensions

• Height: 1.5 – 2.5 m (some dwarf varieties remain smaller)

• Width: 1.5 - 2 m

• Port: bushy, rounded, compact

Foliage and decorative appearance

• Oval leaves, green in the growing season

• Autumn: intense shades of red, carmine or purple

• "Winged" branches provide decorative interest in winter as well

 Flowers and fruits

• Small, greenish, inconspicuous flowers (May–June)

• Pink-reddish fruits with orange seeds, decorative, but inedible

 Planting requirements

• Exposure: sun or partial shade (fall color is more intense in sun)

• Soil: well drained, fertile; it also tolerates poorer soils

• Watering: moderate; drought resistant after establishment

• Resistance: very good in frost and urban pollution

 Maintenance

• It requires minimal care

• Pruning is done in the spring, just to correct the shape

• Very resistant to diseases and pests

 Use in landscaping

• Planted lonely, as an autumn focal point

• In groups of shrubs or free hedges

• Ideal for residential gardens, parks and urban spaces

Main advantages:

• Exceptional fall color

• High resistance to cold and urban conditions

• Decorative aspect including winter, thanks to the winged branches