Japanese spindle 'Microphyllus Pulchellus' Euonymus japonicus 'Microphyllus Pulchellus' (v)

Water

For a Japanese Spindle (Euonymus japonicus 'Microphyllus Pulchellus'), water deeply but infrequently to encourage a strong root system. Typically, watering once a week during active growth periods in spring and summer is sufficient, providing about 1-2 gallons depending on the size and age of the plant. Reduce watering frequency to every two to three weeks during fall and winter when the plant is dormant. Always check the top inch of the soil for dryness before watering; the soil should be dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Water directly at the base of the plant and avoid wetting the foliage to prevent fungal diseases.

Light

The Japanese Spindle thrives best in full sun to partial shade. An ideal spot would provide bright, indirect sunlight for most of the day with some protection from the intense midday sun, especially in hotter climates. Too much direct sun can scorch the leaves, while too little can lead to leggy growth, so find a balance that suits your specific environment.

Temperature

A Japanese Spindle prefers temperate conditions and can tolerate a range from 30 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideal growing temperatures are between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can handle occasional dips below freezing, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 30 degrees Fahrenheit can damage the plant. Protect from extreme cold with mulch or by bringing potted specimens indoors.

Pruning

Pruning the Japanese Spindle is primarily done to maintain shape and encourage dense, bushy growth. It’s best to prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Pruning can be done annually or as needed to remove dead or damaged branches, control size, and improve the overall appearance of the plant. Regular pruning also helps to rejuvenate older plants and maintain plant health.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Euonymus, commonly known as Japanese Spindle, thrives in well-drained, loamy soil with a pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0). A soil mix consisting of equal parts garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or coarse sand encourages healthy growth. Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter to provide the necessary nutrients.

Repotting

Japanese Spindle should be repotted every two to three years to refresh the soil and allow for root growth. Young plants may require more frequent repotting, while mature plants can be repotted less often if they are not outgrowing their pots.

Humidity & Misting

Japanese Spindle prefers moderate humidity levels. Maintaining indoor humidity around 40-50% is usually adequate for the plant. Avoid extremely low humidity conditions, which can cause leaf browning and crispiness.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Japanese Spindle in bright, indirect light; water when soil is dry.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade to full sun; shelter from harsh winds.

• Hardiness zone

  6-9 USDA

Life cycle

Euonymus japonicus 'Microphyllus Pulchellus', commonly known as the Japanese spindle, begins its life cycle as a seed, typically germinating in a warm, moist environment in spring. Upon germination, the seedling emerges and establishes its roots and a pair of initial leaves for photosynthesis. As the plant grows, it develops a small, compact form with tiny, glossy green leaves, typical of the 'Microphyllus Pulchellus' variety. The Japanese spindle reaches maturity in a few years, during which it can start producing small, inconspicuous greenish-white flowers, usually in late spring to early summer. Following flowering, small, pink to red fruits may form, which change to a more purple shade upon maturity, and they may persist into winter. The plant can live for many years, and maintenance includes regular pruning to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Japanese Spindle 'Microphyllus Pulchellus' is commonly propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings, which is considered the most popular method. This process typically occurs during the late summer months. To propagate, select healthy, non-flowering stems and cut a segment about 4 to 6 inches long. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting, and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone to encourage growth. The prepared cutting should then be inserted into a pot filled with a mix of peat and perlite or sand. It's important to maintain a consistently moist, but not soggy, environment and provide indirect light until roots have developed, usually within a few weeks. Once rooted, cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots with standard potting soil and grown on until they are ready to be planted out.