Euonymus latifolius

Euonymus latifolius is a deciduous spindle tree. This medium-sized bush bears large leaves that turn red and then purple, while its small fruits ripen to a deep pink with a bright orange seed. It is undemanding and very robust, it will simply be superb in a shrub bed or an informal hedge.

Euonymus latifolius is native to central and southern Europe, western Asia, and Algeria. It is a perfectly cold-resistant bush, well adapted to limestone and clayey soils, with relatively low water requirements. Like all spindle trees, it belongs to the Celastraceae family.

The broad-leaved spindle tree can reach a height of 4.50 m and a spread of 3.50 m. It has a rounded and bushy habit. This bush often produces several trunks from its stump. Its bark is smooth and grey, becoming slightly fissured with age. Its foliage is deciduous, appearing in spring and falling in autumn. The leaves are opposite on the branches, simple, wide, measuring from 5 to 12 cm in length. They are oval or elliptical with a slightly toothed edge. Their colour is a bright green during the growing season. They turn spectacularly red and purple in autumn before falling. The flowers, which appear in May-June, are small and green, usually grouped in inconspicuous inflorescences. The fruit is a pink or bright red capsule at maturity, opening to reveal bright orange, highly contrasting seeds. They are beautiful but toxic to humans. However, they are a source of food for birds and other small animals, even in winter.

Euonymus latifolius is easy to grow and thrives in any well-drained soil, in a sunny exposure that will enhance its autumn colours. Its changing foliage and colourful fruiting make it an excellent choice for informal hedges, adding a sumptuous touch that will captivate the gardener. With its medium size, it fits well in gardens of all sizes.  Combine it with shrubs that are as accommodating as it is: Hedge Berberis, shrubby honeysuckles (Lonicera tatarica or L. fragrantissima), Cotinus 'Grace', Mahonia aquifolium, California Privet...