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Description
Euonymus Oxyphyllus, commonly known as the Korean Spindle or the Korean Euonymus, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Celastraceae family. It is native to Korea and China, and has gained popularity as an ornamental plant due to its striking foliage and beautiful flowers. The plant can grow up to 3 meters in height and spread to a width of around 2 meters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Celastrales |
| Family | Celastraceae |
| Genus | Euonymus |
Appearance
Euonymus Oxyphyllus has glossy, dark green leaves that turn a deep red in the fall. The leaves are oval-shaped and have a serrated margin. The plant produces clusters of small, white, fragrant flowers in late spring to early summer, which are followed by red or pink fruit capsules that split open to reveal bright orange seeds. The bark of the plant is gray-brown and smooth.
Care Guide
Euonymus Oxyphyllus is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful shrub:
Water: Euonymus Oxyphyllus prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently during periods of drought.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth appears. Repeat the application every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Soil: Euonymus Oxyphyllus can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Make sure the soil is well-draining to prevent root rot.
Sunlight: Euonymus Oxyphyllus can tolerate full sun to partial shade. However, it will produce the best foliage color in partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Euonymus Oxyphyllus is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Euonymus Oxyphyllus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Here are some symptoms of these common pests and diseases:
Scale insects: Small, immobile bumps on the leaves, stems, and branches. These bumps can be brown, black, or white in color.
Spider mites: Fine webbing on the leaves and stems, as well as yellowing and browning of the foliage.
Powdery mildew: A white or gray powdery coating on the leaves and stems, as well as distorted growth and yellowing of the foliage.
To prevent these pests and diseases, make sure to keep the plant well-watered and fertilized, and prune out any affected branches or leaves.
Habitat
Euonymus Oxyphyllus is native to Korea and China, where it grows in woodland areas and along streams. It prefers moist, well-draining soils and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. The plant has been introduced to other parts of the world as an ornamental plant, and can now be found in gardens and parks throughout the United States and Europe.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Euonymus Oxyphyllus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Euonymus Oxyphyllus can be grown in containers, but make sure to choose a large enough pot and use a well-draining soil mix.
Q: When is the best time to prune Euonymus Oxyphyllus?
A: Euonymus Oxyphyllus can be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Prune out any dead or damaged branches, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other.
Q: Can Euonymus Oxyphyllus be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Euonymus Oxyphyllus can be propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in the summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a warm, bright location until roots form.
Q: Is Euonymus Oxyphyllus poisonous?
A: Yes, Euonymus Oxyphyllus is poisonous if ingested. The plant contains alkaloids that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms if consumed in large quantities.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Euonymus Oxyphyllus that you may also be interested in:
- Euonymus Alatus (Burning Bush)
- Euonymus Fortunei (Wintercreeper)
- Euonymus Japonicus (Japanese Spindle)
- Euonymus Europaeus (European Spindle)
References
- “Euonymus Oxyphyllus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282588
- “Euonymus Oxyphyllus.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/56127/
- “Euonymus Oxyphyllus.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/17412/Euonymus-oxyphyllus/Details
