Burning bush, spindle tree

Euonymus species

Trees and Shrubs, Plants of Home and Garden, Bonsai

Seed experiences double dormancy: stratify 2-3 months, then grow warm and in good light 2-3 months, stratify another 2-3 months; may take up to a year to germinate. Well-drained soil, just covered, very tolerant of alkaline conditions. Irregular germination. Grows readily from cuttings. Tourniquet air layering is done in early spring, and is very slow; may even self-layer. Plant purchased specimens in spring or fall. May be grown as bonsai. Zone 3-9

Grow deciduous species, such as Euonymus alata, the most common burning bush, in full sun to light shade; evergreen forms should be protected from full sun. Euonymus alata is hardy zones 3-9, and Euonymus fortunei, in zones 4-9; latter does well in shade