Also known as Eastern Euonymus · Evergreen Euonymus · Evergreen Japanese Spindle
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Japanese spindle tree (Euonymus japonicus) is a versatile evergreen shrub or small tree, valued for its glossy foliage and ornamental appeal in landscaping.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade.
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Tolerates a range of light conditions, though full sun promotes best color and density.
Regularly moist, allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings.
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Prefers consistent moisture but good drainage to prevent root rot.
Well-drained loam
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Prefers moderate temperatures.
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Hardy in USDA zones 6-9. Avoid extreme heat or prolonged frost exposure.
Annual feeding in spring.
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Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer for optimal growth and health.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Japanese spindle trees regularly, especially during dry periods, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Reduce watering in winter when growth slows. Proper drainage is crucial for healthy root development.
Prune Japanese spindle trees in late spring after flowering or in early autumn to maintain shape and encourage dense growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Light pruning can be done at any time to control size. Hard pruning is best done during dormancy.
Propagate Japanese spindle trees from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer or early autumn. Dip cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix.
Keep the soil moist and provide a humid environment, such as covering with a plastic bag, until roots form.
Repot young Japanese spindle trees every two to three years, or when rootbound, typically in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger with adequate drainage holes. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Mature plants may only require repotting every four to five years.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Japanese Spindle Tree (Euonymus japonicus)
Where Japanese Spindle Tree (Euonymus japonicus) 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 japonicus |
Similar in genus Euonymus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
