Botanical profile

Euonymus alatus 'Chicago Fire'

Latin name
Euonymus alatus 'Chicago Fire'
Common name
Winged spindle tree 'Chicago Fire'
Type
Shrub
Family
Celastraceae

Euonymus alatus ‘Chicago Fire’ is a compact ornamental shrub highly valued for its exceptionally intense autumn coloring. Selected for its denser and more controlled habit than the species type, it forms a rounded and well-branched silhouette, ideal for borders, low hedges, and specimen planting. Its dark green deciduous foliage transforms in autumn into a flamboyant and uniform scarlet red, offering a striking spectacle that immediately catches the eye. In winter, its branches with corky wings retain a discreet but decorative structural interest. Robust and easy to maintain, Euonymus alatus ‘Chicago Fire’ adapts to various well-drained soils and is very hardy, making it an excellent choice for Quebec gardens seeking color, structure, and reliability across multiple seasons.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 4–8
Exposure
Sun to partial shade
Watering
Moderate watering
Fertilization
Slow-release fertilizer 14-7-14 or 4-2-8. Fertilize monthly or as directed on the bag. Add Myke at planting.
Soil type
Neutral to slightly alkaline, well drained
Minimum temperature
'-34°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
Non-ornamental
Fruiting
Small pink decorative capsules with orange seeds
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Shrubby
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
2.5 to 3 m (8 to 10 feet)
Width
2.5 m (8 feet)
Growth rate
average
Not recommended for pets
Not recommended for pets

Pets

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

Deer
Less attractive or generally tolerated by deer

Deer

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.