Euonymus tingens

Euonymus tingens is an evergreen shrub or small tree. It belongs to the Celastraceae family. Its native range runs from the Himalaya to south-central China. It grows in forests within this temperate region. Recorded sites lie at 6,890–10,830 feet [2,100–3,300 metres]. Plants For A Future also lists forest sites in Burma. The species is not native to Britain or Ireland.

In cultivation, it reaches about 15 feet [4.5 metres] tall. It keeps its leaves throughout the year. Flowers appear from May to June. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects pollinate the flowers. Plants in light shade may produce less fruit. The fruit has a recorded use as a cosmetic. No edible use is known for this species.

This tree accepts sand, loam, and clay, including chalky ground. It prefers loam that lets excess water drain away. It tolerates mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline soil. It can grow in full sun or light shade. Dry shade is one site where it can grow well. It accepts both dry and moist soil. Suggested garden settings include woodland edges and sites with dappled shade. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 8–11. It also warns that British winters can limit outdoor growth. Mild parts of Britain offer the best chance of success.

The bark has several recorded uses beyond the garden. Bark from old stems yields a yellow dye. The wood is hard, dense, and fine-grained. Its recorded use is as fuel. Traditional medicine uses the bark as a purgative. Records also describe bark juice for eye complaints, constipation, and indigestion. These are reported uses, not proof of safety or benefit. Plants For A Future reports no known toxicity records for this species. That does not establish that it is safe to eat.

Propagation is possible from seed or half-ripe cuttings. Sow fresh seed in a cold frame once ripe. Stored seed needs three months of cold treatment. Germination may take up to 18 months. Keep young seedlings under glass through their first winter. Plant them out after the last expected spring frost. Half-ripe cuttings can be taken in July or August. Plants For A Future describes this cutting method as easy. It lists no weed potential for the species.