Variegated Japanese Spindle Euonymus japonicus 'Microphyllus Albovariegatus' (v)

Water

The Japanese euonymus should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, typically once a week, but this may vary depending on climate conditions and soil type. The goal is to maintain evenly moist soil; it's essential to avoid waterlogging as it can lead to root rot. Each watering session should provide enough water to soak the root zone, which could be around 1 to 2 gallons for a medium-sized plant in a garden setting. During hot, dry periods, watering frequency may increase, and in winter, it should be reduced as the plant's growth slows down.

Light

The Japanese euonymus thrives best in full sun to partial shade. It is adaptable but will have the best variegation and healthiest growth with bright, indirect light or several hours of direct sunlight per day. It suits being planted in a spot that receives morning sun and afternoon shade, particularly in hotter climates to prevent leaf scorch.

Temperature

The Japanese euonymus is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures; it can survive minimum temperatures down to about 0°F and maximum temperatures well over 100°F. However, its ideal growing conditions would be in temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F. This shrub is well-suited for outdoor growth in USDA hardiness zones 6 through 9.

Pruning

Pruning the Japanese euonymus is essential for maintaining a neat shape and promoting healthy growth; it can be done once or twice a year, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Pruning may also be necessary during the summer to remove any dead or damaged branches or to control the size of the plant. The best time for heavier pruning is during the dormant season to minimize stress on the plant.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Variegated Japanese Spindle prefers well-draining soil with a mix of loam, peat, and coarse sand, and appreciates a balance of moisture. The ideal soil pH for this plant ranges between 6.0 to 7.5, slightly acidic to neutral. A commercial potting mix modified with additional perlite or sand can work well.

Repotting

The Variegated Japanese Spindle should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound. Repotting in the springtime allows the plant to recover during the growing season.

Humidity & Misting

The Variegated Japanese Spindle is adaptable but prefers moderate humidity levels. Average indoor humidity is often suitable, but avoid placing it in excessively dry environments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright indirect light, moderate watering, and average room humidity.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade, shelter soil with mulch, and water regularly.

• Hardiness zone

  6-9 USDA

Life cycle

Euonymus japonicus 'Microphyllus Albovariegatus', commonly known as Variegated Japanese Spindle, begins its lifecycle as a seed. Upon germination, the seedling emerges and gradually develops into a juvenile plant, establishing a root system and foliage. As it matures, the plant enters a vegetative state where it experiences most of its growth, developing distinctive small, variegated leaves and a compact bushy form. This stage can last several years, during which the plant may be pruned to maintain shape. The adult phase is marked by the plant's ability to reproduce; it bears small, inconspicuous greenish-white flowers in late spring or early summer, which are often followed by pinkish fruit. Over time, the Variegated Japanese Spindle may slow its growth, potentially reaching senescence while still providing visual interest with its evergreen variegated foliage.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the Euonymus japonicus 'Microphyllus Albovariegatus', also known as the Variegated Small-Leaf Japanese Spindle, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This is typically done in the late summer. Growers select healthy stems from the current year's growth and cut sections about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) long. Each cutting should have several leaves but the lower half of the cutting should be stripped of leaves before being placed into a rooting medium. The medium commonly consists of a mixture of peat and perlite or sand to provide good drainage and aeration. The cuttings should be kept under high humidity, with gentle warming of the rooting area if possible, and should root within 4 to 8 weeks. Once rooted, the new plants can be gradually acclimated to less humid conditions and grown on until they are ready to be transplanted to their permanent location.