PSC 2620: Woody Trees and Shrub

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Week 4

Euonymus fortunei - Wintercreeper Euonymus

Plant Viewer

The leaves are ovate or cordate in shape with doubly serrated margins.

Plant Description

Euonymus fortunei is a semi-evergreen, low-growing shrub-vine. Its size and shape is variable from plant to plant, even within the same cultivar. It can spread like a groundcover, may form a low mounded shrub, form a taller shrub or even climb a wall thanks to its ability to cling to walls.

It is extremely adaptable to soil type and moisture condition, as long as it is not consistently wet. It grows equally as well in full sun or full shade. It is fast growing and, if left unchecked, can quickly overwhelm other plants. Branches typically spread low over the ground and have aerial roots on the bottom of the stem.

The leaves are typically ovate to oblong with serrated margins, and smaller than one inch. They are glossy and slightly thick and are arranged oppositely on the stem. During the winter the leaves will slightly discolor and some will fall from the plant, though most will be retained throughout the winter season, especially in plants with a groundcover or low shrub form.

Landscape Use

Very suitable for use as a groundcover or foundation planting. Because it is quick growing and easily pruned it can be trained into a hedge, though it is difficult to achieve the tight, rectalinear forms possible with other hedge plants such as Boxwood or Privet because of its irregular growth habit.

Notable Cultivars

Coloratus Low, spreading habit with dark green leaves that turn purplish in the winter.

Emerald 'n Gold Spreading shrub with green leaves with yellow margins.

Emerald Gaiety Green leaves with white margins, the leaves have a pink overcast during the winter. 4 feet high and wide.