Euonymus fortunei 'HARLEQUIN' Fortune's euonymus, spindle
size/type
low or groundcovering,low or groundcovering
usual height
0,3-0,5m
usual width
0,5-1m
leaves
evergreen broadleaf
colour of leaves
flowers
insignificant or non-blooming
location
full to partial sun
soil type
acidic (peaty) to neutral
soil moisture requirements
evenly moist (dislikes drought)
USDA zone (lowest)
5 (down to -29°C)
winter protection
for zone 5+6
for zone 7
categorized
Fortunei group of evergreen euonymus = wintercreeper is native to China a got its name by a botanist Robert Fortune who collected plants in China since the 19th century, and was also the first to have introduced tea plant to India.
Description of the plant:
Harlequin is a perfect name for this dwarf shrub. It bears small, evergreen, creamy-white variegated leaves that turn pink in autumn and winter. It grows slower than most varieties and forms a colourful mound. Its extreme hardiness and slower growth make it a sought-after shrub for evergreen gardens. It is often available as a mini-tree on short stem.Wintercreepers are excellent, low shrubs that not only withstand low temperatures to some -30°C but retain the foliage without any damage. They can be used as a nice groundcover or a climber if given a support. Just think twice when choosing the right variety to be used in a mixed border in order to complement the other plants with its colours. It can be grown in large outdoor containers and troughs.
Grow it in full sun or part shade, in medium fertile, slightly moist but well-drained soil. Fortune spindle can be pruned in the spring or clipped from spring until midsummer. Fully hardy to -29°C (USDA zone 5), possibly a little more.
Last update 28-01-2011.
