European spindletree (Euonymus europaeus)

Also known as: Common spindletree, Spindleberry

The European spindletree (Euonymus europaeus) is favored in gardens and parks for its striking appearance, especially its vibrant autumn foliage and eye-catching pink and orange fruits. Additionally, it thrives in a variety of soil conditions, making it a versatile landscaping choice. While its wood is traditionally used for spindles, it's important to note that its fruit is toxic and can be harmful if ingested.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of European spindletree

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub, Tree

Plant Height

2 m to 10 m

Spread

2 m to 2.5 m

Leaf Color

Green Yellow Red

Flower Size

1 mm to 2 mm

Flower Color

Yellow Green White

Images of European spindletree

Quickly Identify European spindletree

Tall deciduous plant, 15-20 feet (4.5-6 meters) high with oval to lance-shaped leaves.

Distinctive, 4-lobed pink to red capsules opening to bright orange seeds.

Small, yellowish-green flowers in clusters of 3 to 5, lacking a notable scent.

Leaves ovate to oblong-lanceolate, up to 3 inches (7.6 cm) long, with crenate-serrate margin.

Thin stem with greenish-red hue, becoming square and slightly hardened with age.

Scientific Classification of European spindletree

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Celastrales

Family

Bittersweet

Genus

Spindle trees

Species

European spindletree

Planting and Growing of European spindletree

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

50-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water European spindletree?

When watering Euonymus europaeus, aim for about 500 milliliters each time. The goal is to moisten the soil evenly without causing it to become waterlogged. Ensure the soil is damp at least 4 inches deep, which encourages healthy root growth. Avoid creating puddles, as excess moisture can lead to root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered European spindletree? ›

What should I do if my European spindletree is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered European spindletree? ›

How to save an overwatered European spindletree? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for European spindletree?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 4-6 hours daily

Euonymus europaeus thrives best with partial to full sunlight, receiving 4 to 6 hours daily. Ideal lighting cultivates vibrant foliage, robust growth, and an increased defense against environmental stressors.

What are the ideal lighting conditions? ›

Solutions to achieve ideal lighting ›

Benefits of receiving ideal sunlight ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for European spindletree?

Ideal Temperature: 50 ~ 77℉

Euonymus europaeus, commonly known as European spindle, thrives best in a temperate climate with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 77°F. This temperature range allows for optimal growth and photosynthesis, as it provides a balanced environment where the plant can maintain its physiological processes without stress.

What Soil is Best for European spindletree?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Euonymus europaeus thrives in well-drained soil, preventing root rot and ensuring healthy growth. Proper drainage allows nutrients to be more accessible to the roots, which is crucial for vibrant foliage and flower production. This plant prefers soil of moderate fertility, as excessive nutrients can lead to weak, leggy growth. Balanced nutrient levels support robust, bushy development and improve the plant's resilience against pests and diseases. While drainage is essential, the soil should also retain some moisture to keep roots hydrated. A loamy mix ensures that Euonymus europaeus can access the water it needs without becoming waterlogged.

How to Fertilize European spindletree?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Euonymus europaeus, it's essential to use a balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer. During its active growing season in spring, apply approximately 1/4 cup of liquid fertilizer mixed with a gallon of water, distributing it evenly around the root zone. Avoid direct contact with the leaves to prevent burn.

How to Prune European spindletree?

Pruning Time: Spring, Autumn

To effectively prune Euonymus europaeus, start by removing any dead, damaged, or diseased branches to promote plant health. Next, focus on maintaining the desired shape of the plant by cutting back branches that are growing out of bounds. Always cut just above a node or bud that faces the direction in which you want the new growth to develop.

How to Propagate European spindletree plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring

Harvest seeds in the autumn when the fruits split open. Clean and dry the seeds thoroughly to remove any pulp. Store them in a cool, dry place until planting in early spring.

In spring, select strong, healthy stems for cuttings. Cut them at a 45-degree angle, and remove the lower leaves to reduce moisture loss. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to enhance root formation.

In early spring, sow the seeds in a well-drained seed-starting mix. Cover them lightly with soil, and water gently. Maintain consistent moisture until germination.

How to Repot European spindletree plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Euonymus europaeus should be repotted when it shows signs of being root-bound, such as roots poking out of the drainage holes or soil that dries out rapidly after watering. It's best to choose a time in early spring before new growth begins to repot, as this allows the plant ample opportunity to establish itself in the new soil during the growing season.

When selecting a pot for Euonymus europaeus, opt for one that is slightly larger than the current pot, with good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. A pot that is 2 inches larger in diameter is typically sufficient. The benefit of the proper pot size is that it encourages healthy root growth without causing the plant to expend excess energy filling a much larger volume of soil than it needs.

Select a well-draining loamy soil for Euonymus europaeus to avoid root rot, which can be caused by water retention in poorly draining soils. A mix that includes peat, bark, and perlite or sand will provide the necessary drainage and aeration, while also retaining enough moisture to support the plant's needs without overwhelming it.

Toxicity of European spindletree

Is European spindletree toxic to humans?

Every part of the European spindletree is regarded as toxic when consumed raw, with the fruit being particularly hazardous. Eating significant amounts of the vibrant purple and pink berries can lead to diarrhea, chills, weakness, vomiting, convulsions, and even coma. As a widely favored ornamental garden tree, the European spindletree poses a particular risk to children, who are often attracted to the berries due to their bright, candy-like appearance.

Is European spindletree toxic to cat?

The European spindletree poses a toxicity risk to felines. In the event that a cat inadvertently consumes any portion of the plant, it could result in poisoning. This plant is particularly hazardous as every part contains toxic compounds that are harmful to cats. Symptoms observed in affected cats can include physical distress, illness, or pain. It is crucial to seek prompt veterinary assistance if a cat is suspected of having ingested European spindletree to maximize the chances of recovery.

Is European spindletree toxic to dog?

The European spindletree is identified as a toxic species for dogs. All parts of this plant contain toxic elements, which can lead to poisoning if a dog consumes any portion. Symptoms that may arise from ingesting the European spindletree include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and alterations in heart rate. Therefore, it is essential for dog owners to keep a vigilant eye on their pets and prevent them from eating this plant. Should a dog consume European spindletree, seeking prompt veterinary attention is vital to manage any risk of poisoning.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.