Shrub
Wintercreeper
Euonymus fortunei
An evergreen shrub with stems that can trail or climb. Its habit and leaf colour vary with the cultivar and how it is grown. Keep its spread in check; it is invasive in some regions.
- Size
- 1.5–2.5 m high · 1.5–2.5 m wideVaries by cultivar
- Light
- Full sun / Partial shade / Full shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Winter
- Hardy
- Seasonal form
- Evergreen
- Maintenance
- Moderate
Before planting
- The 1.5–2.5 m dimensions describe a shrubby form. Groundcover cultivars can be much lower; supported stems may climb many metres.
- Provide well-drained soil. Sun and partial shade suit it, and shade is tolerated; leaf colour in cultivars depends on the light.
- It is invasive in parts of the eastern USA. Check local guidance and restrictions; choose another plant where it threatens natural habitats.
Why choose it
- Leathery evergreen leaves provide lasting structure for borders and edging.
- The species has green leaves; white or yellow markings and winter tints depend on the cultivar.
- Depending on the cultivar and training, it can serve as groundcover, a small shrub or a climber on a support.
Care
- Water after planting and during prolonged drought. Established plants tolerate some drying; check pots more often.
- Trim unwanted growth in spring. Remove stems rooting outside the intended area and keep it from covering trees.
- On variegated cultivars, remove shoots with entirely green leaves. Cold, drying winter winds can damage the foliage.
Good to know
- Flowers and fruit develop on adult-phase shoots; low groundcover growth often does not flower. Leaf size can also change with growth phase.
- Do not eat the leaves or fruit, and prevent children and pets from eating them.