Japanese Spindle
euonymus japonicus
Also known as: ["Evergreen Spindle","Japanese Euonymus"]
Overview
A dense, evergreen shrub with glossy, dark green leaves and a compact growth habit, often used in formal hedges and topiary.
Benefits & Perks
["disease resistant","deer resistant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Celastrales |
| Family: | Celastraceae |
| Genus: | Euonymus |
| Botanical Name: | Euonymus japonicus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with loam, peat, and perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to maintain shape; light pruning can be done anytime.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; can be shaped heavily but avoid removing more than one-third of growth at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or bright indirect light per day.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate indoor temps.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; avoid fertilizing newly planted or stressed plants; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is vigorous.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open up plant; heading back to encourage bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, remove dead/damaged growth, encourage bushiness; best done after flowering or in late winter.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth first; make clean cuts just above buds or branches.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or turn brown; growth slows or halts in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; provide frost protection; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; avoid overfertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Euonymus japonicus. The berries are particularly concerning due to their toxic content, which can cause discomfort and mild poisoning symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Euonymus japonicus can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea. The berries are more likely to cause adverse effects due to their higher concentration of toxic compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicEuonymus japonicus contains alkaloids and other compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and irritation upon ingestion. The berries are particularly noted for their potential to induce nausea and vomiting in humans.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Euonymus japonicus toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does Euonymus japonicus require full sun?
A: It tolerates partial shade but thrives in full sun for best foliage color.
Q: How often should Euonymus japonicus be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Celastraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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