shrub

Purple Wintercreeper

Euonymus fortunei 'Purple'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

9 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate, drought-tolerant once established

Humidity

Average garden humidity

Lifespan

20+ years

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

All parts are poisonous if ingested.

The Story

Plant Bio

Euonymus fortunei, commonly known as wintercreeper, is a broadleaf evergreen woody vine or sprawling shrub native to East Asia. It is noted for its variable habit, ranging from a prostrate ground cover to a climbing vine or mounding shrub, and its adaptability to a wide range of growing conditions. This cultivar, often sold as Purple Wintercreeper, is a vigorous, prostrate ground cover whose glossy, dark green leaves turn a rich, dramatic purplish-red in fall and winter, providing excellent cold-season interest.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round visual interest with its vibrant purple foliage and adaptable growth habit.

Drought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering.

Supports local bird populations by providing shelter.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck dormant cuttings into moist soil in spring for propagation.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during rooting.
Plant in well-drained soil with partial to full sun exposure.
Water regularly during first year to establish roots.
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead wood.
Mulch around base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Prune after flowering to shape the shrub
Apply mulch to retain soil moisture
Fertilize in early spring with balanced fertilizer

Don't

Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
Don’t prune in late fall to prevent frost damage
Refrain from heavy fertilization during summer

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Plant
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Evergreen hedge with vibrant purple foliageColorful border plantFoundation planting

Companion Plants

Hostas Lavender Barberry Sedum Daylilies

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Purple Wintercreeper questions

What zones can Purple Wintercreeper grow in?

Purple Wintercreeper is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Purple Wintercreeper deer resistant?

Yes — Purple Wintercreeper is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Purple Wintercreeper bloom?

Purple Wintercreeper typically blooms in late spring to early summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Purple Wintercreeper need full sun?

Purple Wintercreeper does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Purple Wintercreeper drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Purple Wintercreeper handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.