Euonymus japonicus is more commonly referred to as the Japanese Euonymus, Japanese Spindle Tree, or Evergreen Spindle. Gardeners cherish this plant for both its adaptability and its visual appeal.
This evergreen shrub (sometimes grown as a small tree) is great for adding year-round interest to the garden, and is easy to care for.
Plants mostly have lush, green foliage, with some varieties displaying attractive yellow variegations.
Leaves are glossy and oval. These create a dense backdrop for the small, inconspicuous greenish-white flowers that appear in late spring or early summer.
Japanese Euonymus typically grows to a height of 10 to 15 feet (3 to 4.5 m), with a spread of around 5 to 8 feet (1.5 to 2.5 m).
Originating from Japan, this plant can grow well in USDA Hardiness Zones 6 to 9. It is rated hardy to zone H5 by the RHS.
It is a versatile plant is makes a popular choice for hedges, screens, grown in containers on a patio, and for use as a foundation plant.
How to Grow Euonymus japonicus in the Garden
Japanese Euonymus is adaptable to different light conditions, being able to tolerate anything from full sun to partial shade.
They prefer a well-drained soil. The soil type is not overly important as they can tolerate a variety of soil types, from loam right through to sandy and clay.
Once Japanese Euonymus is established, it requires just the minimum of care.
They are fairly drought-tolerant. So only water moderately. As it is not a heavy feeder, fertilization is usually not necessary, especially if initially planted in rich amended soils.
Propagation of Euonymus japonicus can be done by taking semi-hardwood cuttings. Plant the cuttings in a mix of peat and perlite in the summer. Keep this mixture moist until roots have formed.
Although Japanese Euonymus care is generally easy, you should be on the look out for scale insects, as these can often affect this plant.
If goring as a hedge or decorative shrub, you may also wish to give it an annual prune to help maintain shape, and to promote denser growth.
Growing Japanese Spindle in Containers or as a Houseplant
Euonymus japonicus is often referred to as Japanese Spindle when growing as a houseplant.
Although it can be grown indoors, there are probably many better options available, though it can make a good container plant for the patio. Its toxicity means that they should not really be grown as a houseplant if you have pets or young children. As this plant is poisonous, be sure to wear gloves when doing any work on it.
It is able to tolerate a large range of light conditions. Ideally, place in a spot that has bright, indirect light in the conservatory, or in a partially shaded spot of the patio.
Water the plant when the top inch (2.5 cm) of the soil feels dry to the touch.
The container you grow it in will need plenty of drainage holes to prevent waterlogging (be sure to use a well-draining soil). Ideal temperatures for growing indoors are about 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C).
You may need to prune it occasionally to help maintain shape and promote bushier growth.
Quick Japanese Euonymus Growing and Care Guide
Scientific Name: Euonymus japonicus
Common Name(s): Japanese Euonymus, Japanese Spindle Tree, Evergreen Spindle.
Growing Zone (USA / UK Hardiness): USDA Zones: 6-9. RHS Hardiness Rating: H5 (Hardy – cold winter).
Best Used For / Garden Location: Ideal for hedges, borders, patios, containers, and as a foundational planting.
Plant Details
Life Cycle / Plant Type: Evergreen, shrub.
Plant Height: 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters).
Plant Spread: 5-10 feet (1.5-3 meters).
Blooms: Late spring to early summer.
Flower Details: The flowers are small, greenish, and not particularly showy.
Leaf Foliage: The leaves are glossy, dark green, and oval-shaped.
Fruit: Small pink to orange capsules, with a hint of white. These open to reveal orange seeds.
Growing Conditions and Location
Best Light Conditions: Full sun to partial shade.
Suitable Soil Types: Adaptable to a wide range of well-drained soils.
Sowing / planting: Propagate from seeds, or semi-hardwood cuttings.
Germination time: Seeds germinate in about 1-2 months.
Propagation: Propagation can be done by seeds or semi-rip cuttings (summer).
Plant Care: Minimal care. Prune to maintain shape.
Growing in pots and containers: Can be grown in containers.
Growing as a House plant: Not typically grown as a houseplant.
Further Information
Miscellaneous: Fruits and leaves are toxic if ingested. Attracts birds.
Pests and diseases: May be susceptible to scale insects and fungal diseases.
Common Cultivars / Varieties: Euonymus japonicus 'Aureomarginatus' has green leaves with yellow margins.
Family: Celastraceae, the Staff Vine family.
Native: Japan, Korea, China.
References and Further Reading: Euonymus japonicus: Missouri Botanical Garden. RHS Plant finder.
Common Questions
Is Euonymus japonicus make a good garden or landscaping plant?
Euonymus japonicus is a popular choice for landscaping due to its versatility. It is useful for use in a hedge, for screening, or as a standalone specimen.
Is Euonymus japonicus fragrant?
Euonymus japonicus isn't known for its fragrance.
What is the perfect garden location to grow Euonymus japonicus?
Euonymus japonicus is a quite adaptable shrub, but generally prefers a garden location subject to full sun to partial shade, and a well-drained soil. It can grow in most soil types and pH levels.
Is Euonymus japonicus invasive in the USA?
Euonymus japonicus is not thought to be invasive in the USA. Though it can spread and become weedy if not properly managed.
How do I remove Japanese Euonymus plants from my garden?
To remove Japanese Euonymus you will need to cut the plant back and dig out its entire root system. Continuous monitoring will be required to ensure any missed roots do not create new growth.
Summary
Euonymus japonicus originates from Japan and Korea, and is better known as Japanese Euonymus. It tolerates a wide range of conditions. Ideally grow in full sun to partial shade, with any well-drained soil. It's a hardy, drought-tolerant shrub suitable for hedging or topiary.
I hope that you have enjoyed reading this guide on how to grow Japanese Euonymus. You may also enjoy the following shrub growing guides: How to grow Japanese Pieris, Weigela Florida Alexandra, Alabama witch alder, Yucca Gloriosa, and Rose of Sharon plants in the garden.
