Euonymus atropurpureus aka Bitter Ash
Taxonomy ID: 8514
Euonymus atropurpureus, also known as American wahoo, eastern wahoo, burningbush, and hearts bursting with love, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to eastern North America. It has an irregular upright spreading habit with green twigs that have stripes of conspicuous corky wings. The mid green oval leaves turn red in autumn, adding to its vibrant appeal. In late spring, it produces small dark purple flowers followed by bright red fruits that split open to reveal bright red seeds. This species can grow up to 8 meters tall, with gray, smooth, and lightly fissured bark. The dark purplish-brown twigs are slender, sometimes four-angled or slightly winged. The leaves are opposite, elliptical, and have a finely serrated margin. They are green above, often with fine hairs beneath, and transform into a vibrant red color during fall. The flowers are bisexual, with greenish sepals, brown-purple petals, and stamens, arranged in small axillary cymes. The fruit is a smooth reddish to pink four-lobed capsule, each containing a single seed, and is orange with a fleshy red aril.
Common names
Bitter Ash, Burningbush, WahooMore information about Bitter Ash
How difficult is it to take care of Bitter Ash
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Bitter Ash, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
What is the region of origin of Bitter Ash
Bitter Ash’s native range is Eastern N. America - Ontario to Florida, Montana, Oklahoma and Nebraska.
What are the water needs for Bitter Ash
Bitter Ash should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Bitter Ash
Bitter Ash loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
What is the sunlight requirement for Bitter Ash
To ensure optimal growth, the Bitter Ash prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
How to fertilize Bitter Ash
The Bitter Ash grows at a slow pace and doesn't require any supplementary fertilizers. By renewing its potting soil once a year, it should receive enough nourishment. Remember, plants obtain their energy from sunlight, not fertilizers.
Is Bitter Ash toxic to humans/pets?
Bitter Ash is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
What is the growth pattern of Bitter Ash
New growth will sprout from the top of the Bitter Ash as it grows vertically.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Euonymus Genus

Euonymus hamiltonianus Hamilton's Spindle

Euonymus sachalinensis Siberian Spindletree
Euonymus alatus apterus Corky Spindletree

Euonymus fortunei Climbing Euonymus

Euonymus verrucosus Warted Spindle
Euonymus macropterus Large Winged Spindle

Euonymus atropurpureus Bitter Ash

Euonymus americanus Bursting Heart
