Species

Euonymus alatusWinged Euonymus

3 other cultivars

shrub

Little Moses Winged Euonymus

Euonymus alatus 'Little Moses'

$49.99

The Story

Plant Bio

Euonymus alatus, commonly known as burning bush, is a deciduous shrub famous for its brilliant scarlet-red fall foliage and the unique, corky 'wings' on its stems.

'Little Moses' is a superior dwarf cultivar, growing to only 3 feet tall and wide with a very dense, compact habit. It delivers the same spectacular fiery red fall color as the species in a much smaller, more manageable size.

Uses & Benefits:

The primary ornamental feature is its unbelievably intense, fiery red fall foliage, which makes it a standout focal point. In winter, the corky, winged stems provide unique architectural interest in the bare landscape.

Its extremely tough and adaptable nature makes it a low-maintenance choice for difficult sites. The dense, compact form of 'Little Moses' is perfect for creating a low, informal hedge or for foundation plantings where space is limited.

While its flowers are insignificant, the small reddish-purple fruits that follow are eaten by some birds, which unfortunately contributes to its spread into natural areas where it is considered invasive.

SpeciesEuonymus alatusWinged Euonymus

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

36 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Long-lived

Native To

Northeastern Asia

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested.

Bloom period

Late spring

In flower about 1 month of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Spring Hill Nursery

Bareroot

In Stock$49.99

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site in full sun to part shade with average, well-drained soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the plant's container.
Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
Backfill the hole with the excavated soil.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
Mulch around the base to conserve moisture, but keep it from touching the stems.

Pro Tip

For the most intense, vibrant red fall color, plant 'Little Moses' in a location that receives full sun.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Plant in full sun for the best fall color.
Water regularly during the first year to establish roots.
Prune in late winter if necessary to maintain shape.
Check local regulations, as this species is invasive in some areas.

Don't

Do not plant in soggy, poorly drained soil.
Avoid heavy shade, which results in poor fall color and a leggy habit.
Don't fertilize heavily; it's not necessary in average soils.
Avoid planting where its self-seeding could be a problem.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fiery accent for a small garden spaceLow-maintenance foundation plantingDramatic mass planting for fall color

Companion Plants

Pennisetum alopecuroides Sedum 'Autumn Joy'Juniperus horizontalis Spiraea japonica Solidago

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Little Moses Winged Euonymus questions

What zones can Little Moses Winged Euonymus grow in?

Little Moses Winged Euonymus 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 Little Moses Winged Euonymus deer resistant?

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

When does Little Moses Winged Euonymus bloom?

Little Moses Winged Euonymus typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Little Moses Winged Euonymus need full sun?

Little Moses Winged Euonymus does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Little Moses Winged Euonymus drought tolerant?

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