Euonymus, also known as ‘Spindle’ was given this name because, once upon a time it was used in making spindles used in spinning wool into yarn. It is native to most of the continents in the northern hemisphere. It home gardening it is used as an ornamental, a groundcover, or a hedge.
The species and cultivars vary greatly. They can be deciduous or evergreen, trees, shrubs, or vines with shiny, leathery leaves, small flowers in the spring, and berries in the fall. Most of their appeal comes from the wide range of foliage colors.
Good drainage is very important. Plants may be pruned at any time. Keep watered, and lightly feed plants in early spring with all-purpose slow release fertilizer worked and watered well into soil surface.
A couple of popular Spindle varieties:
E. radicans Winter Creeper– Clinging Vine. Zone 5. Held to support by root-like protrusions. 1/2 – 2″ evergreen leaves. Hardiest evergreen vine available.
E. fortunei Gold Splash– Compact Shrub. Zone 5. Most adaptable variegated Euonymus shrub. 2 – 4′ tall. Uses: Foliage Interest , Hedge , Border , Containers. Additional Features: Fall Color , Bird Lovers , Easy Care Plants , Evergreen , Variegated.