Euonymus atropurpureus (Burningbush, Eastern Wahoo, Indian Arrow Wood, Strawberry bush, Wahoo)

Euonymus atropurpureus (Burningbush, Eastern Wahoo, Indian Arrow Wood, Wahoo) is a deciduous shrub native to eastern North America. It is valued for its ornamental features, including distinctive fruit capsules and vibrant fall foliage.  

Appearance: Eastern Wahoo is a medium-sized shrub that typically grows to heights of 6 to 20 feet (1.8 to 6 meters). It has a multi-stemmed growth habit with an irregular and open shape.

Leaves: The leaves of Euonymus atropurpureus are opposite, simple, and elliptical to oblong in shape. They are dark green in color and have serrated margins. In the fall, the leaves can turn brilliant shades of pink, red, or purple, adding to its ornamental appeal.

Flowers: The shrub produces small, inconspicuous, greenish to yellowish-green flowers in late spring. The flowers have a somewhat unpleasant odor and are often not very showy.

Fruits: One of the most distinctive features of Eastern Wahoo is its fruit capsules. These capsules are bright red and split open to reveal orange seeds. The fruits are ornamental and are often retained on the plant into the winter.

Habitat: This species is native to eastern North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, forest edges, and along streams and riverbanks.

Wildlife Attraction: The bright red fruits of Euonymus atropurpureus are attractive to birds and wildlife, making it a valuable plant for wildlife gardens.

Cultivation: Eastern Wahoo is cultivated as an ornamental shrub in gardens and landscapes, particularly for its unique fruit capsules and fall foliage color.

Shade Tolerance: This shrub can tolerate partial to full shade conditions, making it a suitable choice for shaded areas in gardens.

Maintenance: Euonymus atropurpureus generally requires minimal maintenance. Pruning can be done to shape the shrub or remove dead branches.

Toxicity: While the fruits are attractive to wildlife, some parts of the plant, especially the seeds, are toxic if ingested, so caution should be exercised if there are children or pets in the vicinity.

Euonymus atropurpureus, known as Burningbush, Eastern Wahoo, Indian Arrow Wood, or Wahoo, is a native shrub valued for its unique fruit capsules and vibrant fall foliage. It is a great addition to naturalized gardens and provides food for wildlife while adding visual interest to the landscape.