About
Euonymus sanguineus, the blood-red spindle, is a moderate to large deciduous shrub with large, dull-green leaves flushed purple when young and bronzing in autumn. Small, pink and yellow flowers in late spring are followed by red, four-winged fruits to 2.5 cm splitting to reveal yellow seeds. A striking spindle for its unusual colouring.
About the genus
Euonymus, the spindle trees, are deciduous or evergreen shrubs and small trees with simple leaves, small flowers, and ornamental capsular fruits that split to reveal brightly coloured seeds. Several species offer exceptional autumn colour.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
Native toChina, Japan, Korea, Sakhalin
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
CultivationGrows well in most well-drained soils and is tolerant of drier conditions
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