Euonymus atropurpureus (Eastern wahoo)

Euonymus atropurpureus Photo/Illustration: Kristina Jensen, Nebraska Statewide Arboretum



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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Euonymus atropurpureus yew-ON-ih-mus at-tro-per-per-EE-us Common Name: Eastern wahoo Genus: Euonymus
Because it is a relative of the immensely popular burning bush (E. alatus), it isn't surprising that eastern wahoo has great fall color. This North American native grows as a small tree in the southern part of its range and as a large shrub on the Plains. The bright red of its fall foliage is amplified and extended by abundant clusters of scarlet fruits that persist after the leaves have fallen, providing color even into midwinter. Eastern wahoo is effective as an accent plant or when massed wherever a bold, surprising splash of color is desired.
Noteworthy characteristics: U.S. native. Beautiful fall color and fruit.
Care: Provide full sun to partial shade and deep, fertile soil.
Propagation: Root greenwood cuttings in summer, or sow fresh seed in a cold frame.
Problems: Scale.
Height 10 ft. to 15 ft.
Spread 6 ft. to 10 ft.
Light Full Sun to Part Shade
Moisture Medium Moisture
Maintenance Low
Characteristics Attracts Birds; Native; Showy Fall Foliage; Showy Fruit
Bloom Time Early Summer; Summer
Flower Color Purple/ Lavender Flower
Uses Beds and Borders, Hedge, Screening
Style Woodland Garden
Seasonal Interest Fall Interest
Type Shrubs,Trees

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