Species

Euonymus fortuneiWintercreeper

6 other cultivars

shrub

Emerald 'n' Gold Wintercreeper

Euonymus fortunei 'Emerald'

The Story

Plant Bio

Euonymus fortunei 'Emerald 'n' Gold' is a broadleaf evergreen shrub, often used as a groundcover or low hedge. It has glossy, dark green leaves with prominent, irregular golden-yellow margins.

This cultivar is prized for its bright, year-round color. The foliage often develops attractive pinkish-red tones in cold winter weather. It can be grown as a mounding shrub, a groundcover, or can be trained to climb.

Uses & Benefits:

Euonymus fortunei Emerald offers vibrant, evergreen foliage that provides year-round visual interest in borders, hedges, and containers.

Its dense growth habit makes it an excellent groundcover and privacy screen.

Provides habitat and food for birds and beneficial insects, supporting local biodiversity.

SpeciesEuonymus fortuneiWintercreeper

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

24 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Long-lived

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested; can cause stomach upset.

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
Plant in full sun to partial shade for optimal foliage color.
Water regularly during first growing season to establish roots.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage growth.
Prune lightly after planting to shape and remove dead wood.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches ✂️
Apply fertilizer in early spring for vibrant foliage
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature

Don't

Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
Neglect pruning which can lead to leggy growth ❌
Use heavy clay soil without amendments ❌
Plant in full shade where growth may be sparse ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Pest Check
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Evergreen hedge with glossy leavesFoundation planting with year-round interestContainer shrub for patios

Companion Plants

Pieris japonica Camellia japonica Helleborus orientalisFerns Hostas

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Emerald 'n' Gold Wintercreeper questions

What zones can Emerald 'n' Gold Wintercreeper grow in?

Emerald 'n' Gold Wintercreeper is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Emerald 'n' Gold Wintercreeper deer resistant?

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

When does Emerald 'n' Gold Wintercreeper bloom?

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

Does Emerald 'n' Gold Wintercreeper need full sun?

Emerald 'n' Gold Wintercreeper does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Emerald 'n' Gold Wintercreeper drought tolerant?

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