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Description
Euonymus Alatus Compactus, also known as Burning Bush or Dwarf Winged Euonymus, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Celastraceae family. It is native to eastern Asia, particularly in China, Japan, and Korea. The plant is widely cultivated for its ornamental value, especially during the fall season, when its leaves turn into bright red, orange, or purple.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Celastrales |
| Family | Celastraceae |
| Genus | Euonymus |
Appearance
The Euonymus Alatus Compactus can grow up to 5 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It has a dense and rounded shape, with multiple stems that emerge from the base. The leaves are green and oval-shaped, measuring around 2 inches long and 1 inch wide. During the fall season, the leaves turn into shades of red, orange, or purple, creating a striking display of colors. The plant also produces small, inconspicuous flowers that bloom in early summer and give way to small, reddish-pink fruit capsules.
Care Guide
Water: The Burning Bush prefers well-drained soil that retains moisture. Water the plant regularly, especially during the first year of growth, to establish a deep root system. Avoid overwatering or letting the soil dry out completely.
Fertilization: Euonymus Alatus Compactus benefits from a balanced fertilizer application in the spring, before new growth appears. Use a slow-release fertilizer or a granular fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Soil: The plant grows best in moist, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. Avoid planting in heavy clay or compacted soil.
Sunlight: Burning Bush prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but the fall foliage color may be less intense.
Hardiness Zones: Euonymus Alatus Compactus is hardy in zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Burning Bush is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common problems:
- Scale insects: These sap-sucking insects can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control infestations.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown or black spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and improve air circulation to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and improve air circulation to prevent the spread of the disease.
Habitat
Euonymus Alatus Compactus grows naturally in woodland areas, along forest edges, and on rocky slopes in eastern Asia. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought conditions. The plant is also commonly used in landscaping, as a shrub, hedge or specimen plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Euonymus Alatus Compactus toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How do I prune the Burning Bush?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and shape the plant as desired. Avoid pruning too heavily, as this can reduce the fall foliage color.
Q: Can I grow Euonymus Alatus Compactus in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow the plant in a container, as long as it has enough space for its root system to grow. Use a well-draining potting mix and water regularly.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Burning Bush?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year, in the spring, before new growth appears.
Related Plants
- Euonymus Alatus
- Euonymus Fortunei
- Euonymus Japonicus
- Euonymus Europaeus
References
- “Euonymus alatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286764
- “Euonymus alatus ‘Compactus’.” University of Connecticut Plant Database. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/79284/
- “Burning Bush.” The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/burning-bush-growing-profile-3269187
