About

A large shrub or small tree to about 3m, with dark green, oval foliage developing bronze tints in autumn. Inconspicuous but nectar-rich green and white flowers in summer are followed by bright pink, four-lobed fruit, splitting to reveal orange seeds and lasting well into winter.

About the genus

Euonymus can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs or small trees, often with fine autumn colour, and small flowers followed by colourful fruits

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
ToxicityHumans/Pets: Harmful if eaten, wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants

Care notes

CultivationGrow in well-drained soil in sun or semi-shade
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to vine weevil, horse chestnut scale, euonymus scale and caterpillars
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, a leaf spot and sometimes honey fungus