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Plant Profiles / Euonymus
Best for potsOutdoorHedgeTopiaryToxic to pets

Euonymus

Euonymus japonicus · Japanese spindle
A glossy evergreen, often variegated gold or white, that clips into hedges and balls.
Sun to part shadeLight
WeeklyWater
Very easyCare level

Care at a glance

Light

Sun to part shade
ShadeFull sun
Adaptable.

Water

Weekly
DryWet
Moderate.

Humidity

Adaptable
LowHigh
Adaptable.

Temperature

-15–38°C (5–100°F)
CoolWarm
Hardy.

Growth

Moderate
SlowFast
1–2 m.

Soil

Adaptable
LeanRich
Potting mix.

Fertiliser

Spring
RarelyOften
Slow-release.

Pet safety

Toxic
SafeToxic
Toxic if eaten.

About this plant

From Japan. Very tough in coastal and urban conditions.

Best spots

Hedges, troughs and formal pots.

Plant facts

Botanical nameEuonymus japonicus
FamilyCelastraceae
OriginJapan
Plant typeShrub
Mature size1–2 m
Growth rateModerate
FoliageGlossy variegated
ToxicityToxic to pets
PropagationCuttings

Seasonal care calendar

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Prune
Fertilise
PruneFertilise

Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.

Troubleshooting

ScaleOil.
MildewAirflow.
ReversionRemove green shoots.
YellowWet.
SparseClip.

Common questions

Coastal?

Yes.

Hedge?

Yes.

Toxic?

Yes.

Pots?

Yes.