Also known as Burning Bush · Burning Bush Spindletree · Oriental Spindle-Tree
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Winged euonymus (Euonymus alatus) is a deciduous shrub known for its striking scarlet fall foliage and distinctive corky "wings" on its stems.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun for best fall color and densest growth, but tolerates partial shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry. Reduce frequency once established, as it is drought-tolerant.
Well-drained, Clay, Loam, Sandy
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Often not needed in rich soil.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Low
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during the first year after planting, to establish a deep root system. Once established, Euonymus alatus is drought-tolerant. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry.
Avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges to maintain shape and size. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Can be pruned for hedging or as a specimen plant.
Avoid excessive pruning, as it can reduce the distinctive corky wings.
Propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Dip cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining, moist medium. Keep cuttings misted and in a warm location with bright, indirect light until they root.
Alternatively, seeds can be sown in autumn.
Repot container-grown plants every 2-3 years in spring, or when root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering issues.
Trim roots if necessary.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Winged Euonymus (Euonymus alatus)
Where Winged Euonymus (Euonymus alatus) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Celastrales |
| Family | Celastraceae |
| Genus | Euonymus |
| Species | Euonymus alatus |
Similar in genus Euonymus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
