The Burning Bush (Euonymus alatus) is a deciduous shrub known for its intense, fiery red fall foliage. It has been a popular landscaping choice in North America due to this striking seasonal color and its relatively low maintenance, appealing to gardeners seeking vibrant autumn hues.
What is a BB Plant
The Burning Bush (Euonymus alatus) is a multi-stemmed deciduous shrub, typically 4 to 8 feet tall and wide, though some varieties can reach 20 feet. Its summer foliage consists of medium to dark green elliptical leaves, 1 to 2.5 inches long, arranged oppositely along the stems.
A distinctive characteristic, especially noticeable in winter after leaf drop, is the corky ridges or “wings” along its greenish-brown stems. These unique appendages give it the common name “winged euonymus.” While its late spring flowers are inconspicuous and yellowish-green, the plant’s true spectacle emerges in autumn. The leaves transform into a brilliant crimson to purplish-red, creating the “burning” effect, most intense in full sun.
Growing and Caring for BB Plants
The Burning Bush is notably adaptable, thriving in a variety of conditions. It grows best in full sun to partial shade, with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily promoting the most vibrant fall color. While it can tolerate some shade, too much can result in less intense, faded reddish-pink foliage in autumn.
Regarding soil, the Burning Bush is highly flexible, adapting to most soil types, including sandy, clay, acidic, neutral, or alkaline conditions. However, it prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate consistently soggy or waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot. Established plants are quite drought-tolerant, but they benefit from regular watering during prolonged dry spells, ideally about one inch of water per week.
Pruning is not strictly necessary for its health, as it naturally maintains an appealing shape. However, pruning can control its size, shape, or remove dead or damaged branches. The best time for significant pruning is late winter or early spring before new growth begins. For routine maintenance, this can also be done lightly in early spring or summer, ensuring no more than one-third of the plant’s volume is removed at once.
Environmental Concerns and Alternatives
Despite its ornamental appeal, the Burning Bush is considered an invasive species in many regions of North America, particularly in the eastern United States. Introduced around 1860 as an ornamental plant, it has since escaped cultivation. The plant produces a prodigious number of seeds in red capsules, readily dispersed by birds and other wildlife.
Once established in natural areas like woodlands, forests, and fields, the Burning Bush aggressively outcompetes native vegetation. It forms dense thickets that can suppress the growth of native plants, reducing biodiversity and disrupting local ecosystems. This displacement negatively impacts insects, birds, and other animals that rely on native plants for food and habitat. Some states have recognized this threat, with legislation banning its sale in certain areas.
For gardeners seeking vibrant fall color, several native alternatives can be considered. Plants such as Sumac (Rhus species), Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa), and Highbush Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) offer striking red or purple fall foliage. Eastern Wahoo (Euonymus atropurpureus) and Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata) also provide beautiful red hues in autumn and winter, while supporting local wildlife. These alternatives contribute to healthier, more diverse ecosystems.