Burning Bush
Euonymus alatus · Deciduous shrub (often pruned to small tree form), broadleaf, hardwood
Plant Family
Celastraceae
Tree Category
Ornamental / Hedge / Privacy Screen
Variety / Cultivar
'Compactus' is a very common compact cultivar, though specimens can be trained as small specimen trees.
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 8, demonstrating wide adaptability to varying temperate climates.
About This Tree
Dense, rounded shrub or small pruned specimen tree with heavily branched, twiggy structure. It forms a globe or mound shape and is frequently sheared for formal landscaping.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, opposite leaves, elliptic to ovate in shape, 1 to 3 inches long, finely serrated margins, medium green in summer turning fiery red in autumn.
Bark Characteristics
Grayish-brown bark on older stems, with the species uniquely known for corky winged ridges along the stems (though heavily pruned specimen trees may show less distinct wings).
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to central and northern China, Japan, and Korea; widely naturalized elsewhere.
Growing Season
Leafs out in early spring with bright green foliage, transitions to brilliant crimson red in autumn before dropping leaves for winter dormancy.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Thrives in full sun to partial shade; prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering, with good drought tolerance once established.
Mature Size
Typically 5 to 15 feet in height and spread depending on pruning, with a moderate growth rate and a lifespan of 30 to 50 years.
Special Characteristics
Renowned for its spectacular bright red fall color, highly tolerant of heavy pruning, urban pollution, and various soil types.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides dense cover and nesting sites for small birds and mammals; produces small red fruits eaten by some wildlife species, though considered invasive in certain regions due to prolific seed dispersal by birds.