Water
Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot. Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings for established plants.
Also known as American Strawberry-Bush · Hearts-Bustin'-With-Love · Heart’s A Burstin
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Bursting-Heart (Euonymus americanus) is a small, deciduous shrub native to eastern North America, prized for its unique fruit and fall color.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial to full shade
25% intensity
Prefers shady locations, but can tolerate some sun.
Consistent moisture
50% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged.
Moist, well-drained soil
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a range of temperatures, including freezing winters.
Light feeding
25% intensity
Fertilize once in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Fruits and foliage are mildly toxic.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot. Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings for established plants.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pruning can also be done to shape the plant or control its size.
Avoid heavy pruning, as it can reduce flowering.
Propagate from seeds sown in fall or stratified in the refrigerator. Softwood cuttings taken in late spring or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer can also be rooted.
Provide consistent moisture and a well-draining medium.
Repot young plants every 1-2 years in spring, or when root-bound. Established plants in the ground rarely need repotting. Use a well-draining potting mix. Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Bursting-Heart (Euonymus americanus)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Celastrales |
| Family | Celastraceae |
| Genus | Euonymus |
| Species | Euonymus americanus |
Similar in genus Euonymus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
