Myriad-leaf euonymus Euonymus myrianthus
ABOUT
Euonymus myrianthus, commonly known as spindle tree, is a plant with a distinctive appearance characterized by its bright green, glossy leaves, which can display slight variation in shape from elongated ovals to lance-shaped. The foliage often forms in an opposite arrangement along the branches. During certain seasons, small, inconspicuous flowers bloom, typically a greenish or yellowish hue, which may be attractive to various pollinators. As the season progresses, the spindle tree's most recognizable feature becomes apparent: its vibrant fruit. These fruits are eye-catching, initially a green color that ripens to a reddish-pink capsule. When the fruit fully matures, it splits open to reveal seeds covered in a fleshy, orange to red aril, which is a covering that is quite conspicuous and can add a burst of color to the plant's surroundings. The spindle tree's bark and stems also contribute to its overall appearance, with the bark having a textured look that can range from smooth on younger specimens to more fissured as the plant ages. The stems might exhibit a green to brown color, adding to the visual interest of the plant. Overall, the spindle tree is known for its attractive features throughout the year, which makes it a popular choice for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscaping projects.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Celastraceae.
Synonyms
Myriad-Leaved Euonymus, Many-Flowered Spindle Tree.
Common names
Euonymus myrianthus.
ToxicityTo humans
Euonymus myrianthus, commonly known as spindle tree, is considered poisonous to humans. All parts of the plant contain toxic compounds, including alkaloids, which can be harmful if ingested. The symptoms of poisoning from spindle tree may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, weakness, chills, and in severe cases, could lead to more serious effects such as changes in heart rate and rhythm, convulsions, and possibly coma. It is important to avoid consuming any portion of this plant and to seek medical attention immediately if ingestion occurs.
To pets
Like in humans, Euonymus myrianthus, known as spindle tree, is also toxic to pets. The entire plant contains harmful compounds, such as alkaloids, which can cause symptoms if ingested by animals. Pets that consume parts of the spindle tree may exhibit signs of toxicity including vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weakness. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more critical conditions like heart abnormalities, seizures, and possibly coma. It is crucial to keep pets away from this plant and to contact a veterinarian promptly if ingestion is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Height
10 feet (3 meters)
Spread
10 feet (3 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic appeal: The Euonymus myrianthus, commonly known as spindle tree, adds visual interest to gardens with its glossy green leaves and bright fruit.
- Wildlife support: The berries of the spindle tree provide food for birds and other wildlife, fostering biodiversity.
- Low maintenance: As a hardy plant, it requires minimal care once established, making it a convenient choice for gardeners of all levels.
- Adaptability: The spindle tree can grow in a range of soil types and conditions, from full sun to partial shade, offering flexibility in landscape design.
- Seasonal color: With leaves that may turn reddish-purple in the fall, the spindle tree offers seasonal color changes that enhance garden aesthetics.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Euonymus myrianthus, commonly known as spindle tree, can be used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive foliage and bright-colored fruits.
- The wood of the spindle tree is dense and hard, making it suitable for fine woodworking and crafting small objects such as tool handles and knobs.
- The fruits of Euonymus myrianthus can be used for creating natural dyes, providing shades of yellow or green depending on the mordant used.
- The spindle tree's dense foliage can act as a privacy screen or hedge in landscaping when planted in rows or clusters.
- The plant is sometimes used in bonsai cultivation, appreciated for its small leaves and the challenge it presents to the grower.
- Euonymus myrianthus can be used in ecological gardens to support local wildlife, as its fruits may be a food source for birds.
- Its distinct, winged branches can be used in floral arrangements for a unique textural element.
- The bark of the spindle tree, with its interesting texture and color, may be used in decorative crafts or as mulch in garden beds.
- The plant's natural resilience to pests makes it a low-maintenance addition to urban planting schemes.
- Spindle tree branches can be used in the creation of wreaths and other decorative items, particularly in the autumn when the fruits add colour to the arrangements.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Spindle Tree is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Spindle Tree is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Euonymus myrianthus, commonly known as spindle tree, often represents resilience due to its hardy nature and ability to withstand challenging conditions.
- Versatility: The spindle tree can adapt to different environments which symbolizes versatility and the ability to thrive in various circumstances.
- Protection: Historically, some species of Euonymus were used to ward off evil, signifying protection and safety.
WaterThe Spindle Tree should be watered thoroughly, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. It's essential to let the top inch of soil dry out before watering again, which often means watering once a week. During the growing season in spring and summer, you may need to water more frequently, especially if conditions are very warm or dry. As a guideline, use approximately one gallon of water each time for a medium-sized plant. In fall and winter, reduce watering to every other week or less, depending on the humidity and temperature conditions.
LightThe Spindle Tree thrives best in bright, indirect light. It is adaptable and can tolerate some direct sunlight but should be protected during the hottest part of the day to prevent leaf scorch. An east or west-facing spot where the plant can receive gentle morning or late afternoon sun would be ideal.
TemperatureThe Spindle Tree prefers temperatures between 60°F and 80°F, which is typical for most indoor environments. It can handle brief periods of colder temperatures down to about 50°F but should be protected from frost. Extreme heat above 90°F should also be avoided to prevent stress on the plant.
PruningPrune the Spindle Tree to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning can be done once a year, removing any dead or damaged branches and trimming up to one-third of the plant to keep it healthy and well-groomed.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Spindle Tree (Euonymus myrianthus) is well-draining with a mix of loam, peat, and sand or perlite. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0) is ideal for this plant.
RepottingSpindle Tree generally should be repotted every 2-3 years or when rootbound. During repotting, check for healthy roots and prune if necessary.
Humidity & MistingSpindle Tree thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, around 40% to 60%. Avoid environments that are too dry for optimal growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, moderate water, and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, protect from strong winds, ensure soil drainage.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Euonymus myrianthus, also known as Thousand Flower Euonymus, begins with seed germination, where it requires a warm, moist environment to start growth. After germination, the seedling stage follows in which primary leaves will emerge and establish a small root system. The plant then enters a vegetative growth phase, characterized by the development of foliage and branching as it matures into a shrub. Following vegetative growth, Euonymus myrianthus enters the flowering stage, typically producing small, inconspicuous greenish flowers that may go unnoticed. If pollinated, these flowers develop into distinctive pink to red fruits which open to reveal orange seeds, a critical stage for the plant's reproduction. The plant continues to grow and can spread through seed dispersal, completing its life cycle when conditions allow seeds to germinate and grow into new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Euonymus myrianthus, which is often referred to as Spindle Tree, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. Typically, this is done in the late summer when the plant's growth begins to slow and the stems are not as tender as they are in the spring. Ideal cuttings are about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long and include several sets of leaves. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is often dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root development. These cuttings are then placed in a well-draining rooting medium such as a mixture of peat and perlite or sand, ensuring at least one set of leaves is above the surface. The environment should be kept humid, and the medium should remain consistently moist until roots have established, at which point the new plants can be transplanted into individual pots or their final location.
