Euonymus europaeus aka Spindle
Taxonomy ID: 8697
Euonymus europaeus, commonly known as the spindle or European spindle, is a deciduous shrub or small tree belonging to the family Celastraceae. Native to various parts of Europe, it thrives in forest edges, hedges, and gentle slopes with nutrient-rich, chalky, and salt-poor soils. This large, spreading plant can reach a height of 3 meters and has narrowly oval, dark green leaves that turn a brilliant scarlet-red in autumn. In summer, inconspicuous yet nectar-rich green and white flowers bloom, followed by pink, four-lobed fruit that splits open to reveal orange seeds, which last well into winter. The spindle has other names such as fusoria, fusanum, and ananbeam, and it may have even given its name to an ancient Greek settlement called Euonymeia. Its lanceolate to elliptical leaves are finely serrated and measure 3-8 cm long and 1-3 cm broad, appearing dark green in summer and displaying a range of colors from yellow-green to reddish-purple in autumn. The hermaphrodite flowers, which appear in late spring, are small, yellowish green, and insect-pollinated. The capsular fruit ripens in autumn, ranging in color from red to purple or pink and reaching a width of 1-1.5 cm. As the fruit matures, the four lobes split open, exposing the orange seeds. This spindly shrub-tree with an irregular crown can grow rapidly, reaching heights of 12-20 feet (or occasionally up to 30 feet). While slender in its youth, it typically matures into a rounded form. The small, yellowish-green flowers bloom in 3-5 flowered clusters from late April to June, followed by highly attractive fruits. Pinkish-red dehiscent capsules open in fall, revealing tiny seeds encased in fleshy orange arils. The ovate to oblong-lanceolate leaves are crenate-serrate, glabrous, and dull dark green, but they undergo a beautiful transformation in the fall, showcasing varying shades of red, orange, and purple. Spindletree wood was once utilized for making spindles.
Common names
Spindle, European Spindle Tree, Spindletree, European Spindletree, European SpindleMore information about Spindle
How difficult is it to take care of Spindle
Spindle presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.
What is the growth pattern and size of Spindle?
Spindle grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.
What is the region of origin of Spindle
Spindle’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Sweden suth and east to Spain, the Caucasus and W. Asia.
What are the water needs for Spindle
Spindle should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Spindle
Spindle 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 Spindle
To ensure optimal growth, the Spindle prefers bright diffused 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 Spindle
The Spindle 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 Spindle toxic to humans/pets?
Spindle is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Euonymus Genus

Euonymus europaeus Spindle
Euonymus latifolius Large Leaved Spindle
Euonymus tingens

Euonymus alatus Burning Bush

Euonymus lucidus

Euonymus hamiltonianus Hamilton's Spindle

Euonymus americanus Bursting Heart

Euonymus obovatus Running Strawberry Bush

Euonymus sachalinensis Siberian Spindletree
