Euonymus is a diverse group of deciduous and evergreen shrubs, with the popular burning bush being just one example. While many of these shrubs are typically grown outdoors, there are a few euonymus varieties that can thrive indoors as low-maintenance houseplants all year round. Here’s a guide to the best types to grow and how to care for them effectively in your home.
Several euonymus plants can be toxic to cats and dogs if consumed in large quantities due to the alkaloids they contain, which may lead to stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Types of Euonymus Suitable for Indoor Growing
When selecting a euonymus for indoor cultivation, opt for an evergreen species. Japanese spindle plant (E. japonicus) and golden euonymus (E. japonicus ‘Aureo-marginatus’) are popular choices that are readily available.
Japanese Spindle Plant
Also known as Japanese euonymus (E. japonicus), these evergreen shrubs are native to Japan and Korea. While they can grow up to 10-15 feet tall outdoors, their growth is restricted indoors by the size of the pot. These tall, slender plants are easily maintained in a compact form. Japanese euonymus adapts well to large urns and planters outdoors, where they can be pruned to create formal-looking evergreens.
Golden Euonymus
Similar to Japanese euonymus but with yellow variegated leaves, this shrub is resilient and responds positively to pruning, making it an excellent candidate for indoor cultivation. The vibrant gold hue of the leaves adds a striking touch of color to indoor spaces dominated by green plants.
Tips for Caring for Indoor Euonymus
Euonymus houseplants are generally low-maintenance and can withstand some neglect. They are less demanding than plants like fiddle-leaf figs or orchids. Place your euonymus in a sunny window, water it when the soil is dry, and perform occasional pruning to maintain its compact shape for indoor environments.
Lighting
While euonymus plants can tolerate varying light conditions from full sun to shade, they prefer bright, indirect light. Position them near a sunny south-facing window in northern regions or an east window in areas with intense winter sunlight. Consider using a grow light on a timer if your euonymus lacks adequate natural light to ensure its vigor and health.
Soil and Watering
Euonymus plants are adaptable to different soil types as long as there is proper drainage. When grown indoors, standard potting soil works well, provided the pot has drainage holes. Fertilize them twice a month during the growing season while watering, or use a slow-release fertilizer in spring and midsummer. Reduce both watering and fertilization during winter when growth slows down despite the plant being evergreen.
Pot Selection
Euonymus plants are available in various sizes, so choose a pot that matches the plant’s dimensions. A 4-inch-tall eu
When you place your Euonymus outdoors during the summer to bask in the sun and enjoy some fresh air, it can become a target for deer looking for a snack. In many regions, Euonymus is considered a favorite treat for deer. How often should you repot container-grown Euonymus plants? Euonymus shrubs are known to grow quite rapidly, even when kept indoors under the right conditions. It is recommended to repot a healthy plant every year, or possibly every other year. When selecting a new pot, opt for one that is slightly larger than the previous one—avoid making a drastic jump from a small pot to a much larger one all at once.
Can Euonymus be propagated from cuttings? The answer is yes. Both the Japanese spindle plant and golden Euonymus can be successfully propagated using cuttings taken during the summer months. To do this, dip the cuttings in rooting hormone that contains indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), then place them in a moist potting mix and cover them with a humidity dome. With proper care, the cuttings should develop roots within approximately 4 to 6 weeks.
This information is sourced from Better Homes & Gardens.
