Description
Burning Bush 'Compactus' Characteristics
Burning Bush (Euonymus alatus) are mounded ornamental shrubs that are native to Asia. They are now extremely popular focal pieces in the US. While flowers bloom in spring, they are not particularly ornamental. The draw for Burning Bush are the green summer leaves that give way to bright fire-red fall colors. Fruits join the fall foliage and are attractive to birds who will eat the seeds.
Burning Bush are well suited to the Pennsylvania climate and grow well in average fertility soil with medium moisture that is well drained. Sun exposure can be full sun to part shade. With more shade, the less showy fall foliage can be. They are tolerant of the clay soils that are common in the Pittsburgh area. However, good soil drainage is essential. Twig blight may occur in poorly drained soils and spider mites may make their homes here.
Burning Bush can have a wide array of applications in a landscape. The stand out fall foliage makes for a beautiful focal piece. Their small size also allows them to be accent pieces to larger foliage. They can be aligned to form a hedge, but should not be massed in naturalized areas as they can be invasive.
