Euonymus fortunei

Celastraceae
Evergreen, Shrubs, Vines

EUONYMUS

Deciduous and evergreen euonymus species are distinct: the characteristic squarish “hatbox” fruit common to both offers the only hint that they’re related. Deciduous types are valued for fall leaf color or showy fruit. Evergreen sorts, used mainly for landscape structure (background and foundation plants, hedges, dividers), include some of the most coldtolerant broad-leafed plants.

Most species take a range of exposures, from full sun to fairly deep shade; deciduous kinds with fall color give best display in a sunny location. Some species are very susceptible to mildew. Scale can be a problem on any euonymus.

Euonymus fortunei

This is one of the best broad-leafed evergreens where temperatures drop below 0°F/–18°C. Trails or climbs by rootlets. If plant is used as a shrub, its branches will trail and sometimes root; if allowed to climb, it will form a spreading mass to 20 ft. or more. Prostrate forms can be used to control erosion.

Rich deep green leaves are 1–2 1/2 in. long,with scallop-toothed edges; flowers are inconspicuous. Mature growth (like that of ivy) is shrubby and bears fruit; cuttings taken from this shrubby wood produce upright plants. Grows in sun or shade, but variegated types show better color in full sun. In desert, takes full sun better than ivy.

Canadale Gold

Compact growth to 4 ft. high, 3–3 1/2 ft.wide, with light green leaves edged in yellow.

Coloratus

Grows to 2 ft. high, 6–8 ft. wide. Tough, hardy, trailing or vining shrub. Sprawling growth habit; makes a sturdy, uniform ground cover. Leaves turn dark purple in fall and winter.

Emerald Gaiety

To 4–5 ft. high, 3 ft. wide. Dense, erect shrub with deep green leaves edged in white. Good for low hedge, foundation planting.

Emerald ‘n Gold

Grows 4–5 ft. high, 3 ft.wide. Dense, erect shrub with deep green leaves edged in golden yellow.

Golden Prince

Grows 4 ft. high and wide. New growth tipped gold; older leaves turn solid green. Extremely hardy. Good hedge plant.

Ivory Jade

Dense, spreading growth to 3 ft. high, 6 ft. wide, with erect branches. Creamy white leaf margins show pink tints in cold weather. Orange fall fruits. Makes a nice low hedge or accent plant.

Moonshadow

Grows up to 3 ft. high, 4– 5 ft. wide. Bright yellow leaves with dark green margins. Colorful accent, ground cover, or low hedge.