shrub RHS Award

Dwarf Burning Bush

Name: Dwarf Burning Bush
Brand: Euonymus
Availability: InStock

Euonymus alatus 'Compacta'

$45.95

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

120 inches

Width

120 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

50+ years

Native To

Northeastern Asia

Toxicity

All parts are poisonous if ingested, especially the fruit.

The Story

Plant Bio

Euonymus alatus is a large, deciduous shrub famous for its brilliant scarlet fall foliage. Its stems have distinctive corky 'wings' that provide winter interest, giving it the common name Winged Euonymus. 'Compactus' is a popular cultivar that is smaller and denser than the species, with a more rounded habit. It is valued for its reliable, fiery red fall color, but it is not truly compact, often reaching 10 feet tall. This plant is invasive in many parts of North America.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Burning bush is planted almost exclusively for its incredibly vibrant, fiery scarlet fall color, which is among the most brilliant of any shrub. The corky, winged stems also add texture and interest to the winter garden.

It can be used to create a dense informal hedge or screen due to its thick branching habit. It is also a very tough and adaptable shrub, tolerating a wide range of soil conditions and pH levels.

Birds are attracted to the small, reddish-orange fruits and will readily consume them. Unfortunately, this is the primary mechanism by which the plant spreads invasively into natural woodlands, where it shades out native flora and disrupts ecosystems.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a location in full sun to part shade.
This shrub is very adaptable to soil type, but prefers good drainage.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Set the plant in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
Backfill with soil and water well to remove air pockets.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun for the most intense, brilliant red fall color; in shade, the color is often pinkish and less vibrant.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during the first year of establishment.
Prune as needed in early spring before new growth begins.
Monitor closely for euonymus scale insects.
Consider planting a non-invasive native alternative like Itea virginica.

Don't

Do not plant this shrub in natural areas or adjacent to woodlands where it can escape.
Avoid shearing into tight geometric shapes, which can look unnatural.
Do not let the plant get too large before pruning; rejuvenation pruning is possible but stressful.
Do not ignore scale infestations, as they can kill the plant.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Spectacular fall color accentInformal hedge or screening plantFoundation planting for larger buildings

Companion Plants

Juniperus chinensis 'Spartan' Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln' Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' Buxus sempervirens Hydrangea paniculata 'Limelight'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Dwarf Burning Bush questions

What zones can Dwarf Burning Bush grow in?

Dwarf Burning Bush 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 Dwarf Burning Bush deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Dwarf Burning Bush, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Dwarf Burning Bush bloom?

Dwarf Burning Bush 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 Dwarf Burning Bush need full sun?

Dwarf Burning Bush does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.