Euonymus atropurpureus

RHS Plant Profile
Indian arrow wood

Other common names

North American burning bush, wahoo, burning bush

Shrubs Trees

A deciduous shrub or small tree, with an irregular upright spreading habit. The green twigs have stripes of conspicuous corky wings. Mid green oval leaves, turn red in autumn. Flowering in late spring with small dark purple flowers, followed by bright red fruits splitting to reveal bright red seeds

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

4-8 metres

Max Spread

4-8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
4-8 metres
Max Height
4-8 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Celastraceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright, Spreading branched
Potentially harmful
Humans/Pets: Harmful if eatenwear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Genus
Euonymus can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs or small trees, often with fine autumn colour, and small flowers followed by colourful fruits
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Low Maintenance
  • Hedging and screens

Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

May be susceptible to vine weevil, horse chestnut scale, euonymus scale and caterpillars

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews, a leaf spot and sometimes honey fungus