Botanical profile

Euonymus alatus

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

Euonymus alatus, commonly known as winged spindle or burning bush, is a very popular ornamental shrub for its spectacular autumn coloration. It forms a dense, rounded, and well-branched shrub, ideal for informal hedges, shrub beds, and specimen planting. Its deciduous, medium-green foliage turns an intense and uniform scarlet red in autumn, creating a striking visual effect that makes it a focal point in the garden. In winter, its branches with decorative corky wings retain structural interest even after the leaves have fallen. Undemanding and very hardy, Euonymus alatus adapts to a wide range of soils and exposures. Well-established in Quebec, it combines ease of cultivation, a structured habit, and marked ornamental interest over several 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 capsules with decorative orange seeds
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Shrubby
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
3 to 4 m (10 to 13 feet)
Width
3 m (10 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.