BURNING BUSH

The Burning Bush (Euonymus alatus) captivates gardeners with its stunning display of fiery red foliage in autumn. This versatile shrub offers year-round interest with its attractive form, vibrant colors, and low-maintenance requirements. Its adaptability makes it a popular choice for adding a burst of color and texture to various landscape designs.

What You Need To Know:

Specifications

  • Lifespan: 20-30 years with proper care.
  • Canopy Size/Spread: 6-10 feet tall and wide, depending on variety.
  • Root Characteristics: Non-invasive, shallow, and fibrous root system. Not a threat to foundations.
  • Growth Rate: Moderate, around 1-2 feet per year.
  • Edible Characteristics: Berries are considered mildly toxic and not recommended for consumption.

Growing Conditions

  • Soil: Adapts well to most soils, but prefers well-drained loam.
  • Water: Requires regular watering, especially during the first year, but becomes more drought-tolerant once established.
  • Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade.
  • Hardiness Zone: USDA Zones 4-8

More Than Just Fall Color

  • Flowering: Inconspicuous, greenish-yellow flowers appear in late spring, but are not a major ornamental feature.
  • Fall Foliage: The star of the show! The foliage transforms into a stunning display of vibrant red, orange, and occasionally purple hues.
  • Fruit: Small, pink capsules open to reveal red-orange seeds, adding winter interest after the leaves fall. However, be aware that these berries can be mildly toxic.

Interesting Facts:

  • Specimen planting: Create a vibrant focal point with a single Burning Bush in a garden bed.
  • Hedge planting: Establish a low-maintenance, colorful privacy hedge.
  • Foundation planting: Add a pop of color and texture alongside your home’s foundation.
  • Border planting: Frame walkways and borders with a striking display of foliage.
  • Burning Bush seeds were historically used for medicinal purposes, though this practice is not recommended today due to potential toxicity.
  • The plant has played a symbolic role in various religious traditions.

 

Interested In Adding This Unique Tree To Your Property?

Contact Edmonton Arborist and our expert tree planting team will bring and install your very own Burning Bush!

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