Species

Euonymus alatusWinged Euonymus

3 other cultivars

shrub

Rudy Haag Dwarf Winged Euonymus

Euonymus alatus 'Rudy Haag Dwarf'

The Story

Plant Bio

Euonymus alatus, commonly known as burning bush, is a deciduous shrub prized for its brilliant scarlet-red fall foliage. The species is noted for the corky 'wings' that form on its stems, providing winter interest.

'Rudy Haag' is a superior dwarf cultivar, growing to only about one-third the size of the species. It maintains the same fiery fall color and interesting winged bark on a much more compact, manageable frame, but is still considered invasive in many areas.

Uses & Benefits:

The main draw is the incredibly vibrant, fiery red fall color, which is among the best of any shrub. The compact size of 'Rudy Haag' makes it suitable for smaller gardens. In winter, the corky, winged stems provide unique architectural interest.

Its dense, mounding habit makes it an effective low hedge or foundation plant. It is very adaptable to a wide range of soil conditions and is low-maintenance once established.

Birds are attracted to the small, reddish-orange fruits. However, this is how the plant spreads into natural areas, where it outcompetes native vegetation. Its invasive nature is a significant ecological detriment in many regions.

SpeciesEuonymus alatusWinged Euonymus

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

48 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Long-lived shrub

Native To

Northeastern Asia, Japan, China

Toxicity

All parts are poisonous if ingested

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site in full sun for best fall color.
It is highly adaptable to most soil types except very wet ones.
Dig a hole twice the width of the container.
Set the plant at the same depth it was growing in the pot.
Backfill with soil and water thoroughly.
Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

For the most intense red fall color, plant this shrub in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sun.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide full sun for vibrant color.
Prune as needed in late winter to maintain shape.
Water during extended dry periods.

Don't

Don't plant where it can escape into natural woodlands.
Don't plant in poorly drained, soggy soil.
Be aware of its toxicity to pets and humans if ingested.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Compact foundation plantingBrilliant fall color accentLow hedge or border plant

Companion Plants

Itea virginica 'Henry's Garnet'Fothergilla gardenii Aronia arbutifolia 'Brilliantissima'Viburnum trilobum 'Bailey Compact'Rhus aromatica 'Gro-Low'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Rudy Haag Dwarf Winged Euonymus questions

What zones can Rudy Haag Dwarf Winged Euonymus grow in?

Rudy Haag Dwarf 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 Rudy Haag Dwarf Winged Euonymus deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Rudy Haag Dwarf Winged Euonymus, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Rudy Haag Dwarf Winged Euonymus bloom?

Rudy Haag Dwarf Winged Euonymus 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 Rudy Haag Dwarf Winged Euonymus need full sun?

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

Is Rudy Haag Dwarf Winged Euonymus drought tolerant?

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