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Description
Pterygota Alata, also known as the Winged Euonymus, is a deciduous shrub with a spreading growth habit. It belongs to the Celastraceae family and is native to eastern Asia. The plant can grow up to 20 feet tall and 20 feet wide, but can be pruned to a smaller size. Its leaves are dark green and glossy, turning to brilliant shades of red, yellow, and orange in the fall. It produces small yellow-green flowers in the spring, followed by pinkish-red fruit pods that split open to reveal orange seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Celastrales |
| Family | Celastraceae |
| Genus | Pterygota |
Appearance
The Winged Euonymus has a unique appearance due to its distinctive corky wings on its stems. The bark is light brown and smooth, with a few corky ridges. The leaves are ovate, 2 to 4 inches long, and have finely serrated edges. They are arranged alternately along the stems. The plant produces small yellow-green flowers in early spring, followed by pinkish-red fruit pods that split open to reveal orange seeds. In the fall, the leaves turn to brilliant shades of red, yellow, and orange.
Care Guide
Pterygota Alata is a hardy and easy-to-grow shrub that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
- Sunlight: It prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Pterygota Alata is hardy to USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Winged Euonymus is generally pest and disease resistant, but it may be susceptible to the following:
- Scale insects: These pests suck sap from the plant and weaken it. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Pterygota Alata is native to eastern Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea. It grows in forests, thickets, and along stream banks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pterygota Alata poisonous?
A: Yes, the plant is poisonous if ingested. Keep it away from children and pets.
Q: Can Pterygota Alata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers, but make sure the pot is large enough to accommodate the roots.
Q: When is the best time to prune Pterygota Alata?
A: The best time to prune the plant is in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: How often should I fertilize Pterygota Alata?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Pterygota Macrocarpa
- Pterygota Obovata
- Pterygota Sieboldii
References
- “Pterygota Alata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286336.
- “Pterygota Alata.” Plant Database, www.plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/all/pterygota-alata/.
- “Pterygota Alata.” Fine Gardening, www.finegardening.com/plant/pterygota-alata-winged-euonymus.
