Species

Euonymus fortuneiWintercreeper

6 other cultivars

shrub

Euonymus Fortunei Coloratus

Euonymus fortunei 'Coloratus'

The Story

Plant Bio

Euonymus fortunei 'Coloratus' is a versatile evergreen shrub with dense, leathery foliage that displays a rich purple to maroon hue, providing year-round visual interest and a compact, mounding habit.

This cultivar is distinguished by its striking purple foliage that intensifies in cooler weather, making it an excellent choice for adding bold color to shaded or partially shaded gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round greenery and striking purple foliage in fall, ideal for borders and hedges.

Drought-tolerant once established, easy to prune and shape.

Supports local insects and birds with its dense foliage.

SpeciesEuonymus fortuneiWintercreeper

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late fall

In flower about 5 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck cuttings into moist soil in early spring.
Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.
Apply mulch in spring to retain moisture.
Fertilize in early spring with balanced fertilizer.
Monitor for pests and treat as needed.

Pro Tip

Choose well-drained soil and partial shade for best color.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Tuck cuttings into moist soil 🌱
Water consistently during dry periods
Prune to shape after flowering

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t prune in late fall or winter
Avoid excessive fertilizing

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

Silver-foliaged hedgeEvergreen borderFoundation planting

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns HeucheraJapanese maple Lavender

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Euonymus Fortunei Coloratus questions

What zones can Euonymus Fortunei Coloratus grow in?

Euonymus Fortunei Coloratus is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Euonymus Fortunei Coloratus deer resistant?

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

When does Euonymus Fortunei Coloratus bloom?

Euonymus Fortunei Coloratus typically blooms in mid-summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Euonymus Fortunei Coloratus need full sun?

Euonymus Fortunei Coloratus does best in part shade.