Euonymus fortunei Emerald ‘n Gold

Celastraceae
Evergreen, Shrubs

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.

Emerald ‘n Gold

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