Evergreen spindle - Euonymus japonicus (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Toxic)

Evergreen spindle

Also known as: Dwarf Japanese Euonymus , Golden euonymus, Japanese spindle

Evergreen spindle(Euonymus japonicus) is a popular ornamental evergreen shrub with numerous cultivars. Due to its superb adaptability and decorative looks, evergreen spindle can be found in parks and gardens all over the world. Its flowers produce a lot of nectar, which makes this plant very attractive to bees.

Scientific classification

Species

Evergreen spindle (Euonymus japonicus)

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

2 m to 8 m

Plant Height

2 m

Spread

Green, Variegated

Leaf Color

5 mm to 7 mm

Flower Size

Pink, Orange

Fruit Color

White, Green

Flower Color

Green, White

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Evergreen spindle

Distribution of Evergreen spindle

Distribution Map

Evergreen spindle originates from East Asia, in slopey coastal woodland and thicket areas. Use of this plant as an ornamental specimen and hedge plant has spread it to other areas of Asia as well as other locations around the world. It is listed as a problematic weed in New Zealand and Australia, with the potential to become invasive.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Slopes in thickets and woods

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Environmental Protection Value

It can purify air and has strong resistance to toxic gases.

Garden Use

Evergreen spindle is an evergreen shrub or small tree commonly found in gardens. It is prized for its pretty blossoms and rich foliage. Its compact shape makes it suitable for borders and hedges. Evergreen spindle is appropriate for Mediterranean and drought-tolerant gardens. It is also suitable for coastal gardens. Suggested companion plants include Coral Bells or Coneflowers for color contrast.

Symbolism

Foresight, mysticism

Interesting Facts

The evergreen spindle is a highly ornamental bonsai plant, which can be planted as a cascading bonsai, or can be trimmed into an oblique or curved type, with thousands of different forms.

Name Story

Japanese spindle tree: In the Netherlands, many people call this plant spilboome meaning a spindle tree. Since the Dutch make spindles out of its timber and also that this plant is native to Japan, it is now called Japanese spindle tree.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Evergreen spindle, including the following common varieties :

Evergreen spindle 'Ovatus Aureus'Evergreen spindle 'Microphyllus Aureovariegatus'Evergreen spindle 'Bravo'Evergreen spindle 'Green Rocket'

Toxicity

Evergreen spindle is toxic to cats and dogs when ingested, affecting felines and canines with symptoms like vomiting, weakness, diarrhea, and convulsions. All parts (seeds, flowers, fruits, leaves, roots, stems, bark) are harmful. Prevent access and seek immediate veterinary care if ingested.

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Quickly Identify Evergreen spindle

Dense shrub or small tree, 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters) tall, oval silhouette.

Small flowers with unique greenish maroon color and vinegary scent, clustered in axillary cymes.

Striking spherical fruit capsule, 1/3 inch long (8.5 mm), with orange-red seeds and white arils.

Thin, leathery leaves, 1-3 inches (2.5-7.6 cm) long, dark green upper surface, lighter underside.

Consistent green stem with small dark glandular dots, slender, up to 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) in diameter.

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Care Guide for Evergreen spindle

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Thriving in subtropical climates, evergreen spindle prefers moderate humidity and can tolerate brief dryness. It requires evenly moist soil, ideally watered every 1-2 weeks. As an evergreen plant, evergreen spindle benefits from mulching to retain moisture during hot seasons or sunny climates.

Fertilize: For optimal health, evergreen spindle needs balanced fertilizers during the growing season and high nitrogen fertilizers for foliage. Fertilize monthly (1.5 oz per small plant), reducing in winter. Avoid over-fertilizing to protect roots. Dilute as instructed and apply to moist soil for best results.

Pruning: Pruning of evergreen spindle is essential for hedge formation, with medium to heavy pruning recommended for shaping or topiary. Winter is the best time for pruning and trimming evergreen spindle, except for evergreen shrubs, which can be left unpruned.

Propagation: Evergreen spindle propagates best using cuttings taken in spring or summer. It is moderately easy to propagate, with success shown by new growth. Keep cuttings moist and place them in bright, indirect light for optimal results.

Repotting: Repot evergreen spindle every 2-3 years in early spring, using a pot one size larger with good drainage. After repotting, water thoroughly and place in indirect light to support recovery and growth.

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Images of Evergreen spindle

Distribution of Evergreen spindle

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Evergreen spindle

Care Guide for Evergreen spindle

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