Box-Leaf Euonymus

Euonymus japonicus (yoo-ON-ih-mus juh-PON-ih-kus)

Family: Celastraceae Non-native Understory (15-40 ft)

Japanese euonymus is a dense, oval, woody, broadleaf evergreen shrub or small tree in the Celastraceae (bittersweet) family. It typically grows 10 to 15 feet tall and 5 to 8 feet wide, but if left alone it can reach 26 feet in height. The plant is native to Korea and Japan to Nansei-shoto. It can be found in forest or in natural areas in mixed deciduous forests and low woodlands, and especially near the sea in Japan. Japanese euonymus tolerates full sun and heavy shade, but does best in sun-dappled conditions with some afternoon shade in hot summer climates. It is pH adaptable and will grow in most soils, including clay, but does not do well in wet conditions. It is black walnut, drought, and moderately salt spray tolerant, and can withstand heavy pruning. Propagate by seed or stem cutting. This plant makes an excellent hedge or border. Site it in a naturalized area or woodland, or in an Asian or drought-tolerant garden. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: It is susceptible to euonymus scale and is frequently damaged by deer. Powdery mildew can be a problem, as can mites, leaf miners, aphids, mealybugs, and crown gall. Additional diseases which may appear include witches’ broom, stem dieback, and fungal leaf spots. Plants can be susceptible to attacks by caterpillars and are often damaged during the flowering season. It can also become weedy in disturbed areas around houses and buildings. The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home & Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common pests and diseases. More information on Euonymus .

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 66 attributes.