groundcover

Purple Wintercreeper

Euonymus fortunei 'Purple Wintercreeper'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

12 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Euonymus fortunei, commonly known as Wintercreeper, is a versatile evergreen vine or groundcover with small, glossy green leaves and occasional variegation, producing tiny, inconspicuous flowers in early summer. It is valued for its dense foliage and ability to climb or spread across surfaces. The 'Purple Wintercreeper' cultivar is distinguished by its striking purple foliage during the colder months, adding vibrant color contrast and ornamental interest to gardens and landscapes year-round.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides vibrant purple foliage year-round, adding color and texture.

Easy to maintain and tolerant of various soil types.

Provides shelter for birds and insects, supports local biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck cuttings into moist soil in early spring for propagation
Mist the foliage regularly to maintain humidity during establishment
Plant in well-drained soil with partial to full sun exposure
Water deeply after planting and keep soil moist for 2 weeks
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Prune lightly in late winter to shape and remove dead growth

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide partial to full sun for optimal foliage color
Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
Mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t prune excessively in late summer
Keep away from overly wet or poorly drained soils

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Evergreen groundcover for shaded areasVine on trellises with vibrant purple foliageBorder plant with contrasting greens

Companion Plants

Hosta Ferns Heuchera Japanese Maple Lavender

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 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.