Euonymus fortunei Harlequin - Spindle

Euonymus fortunei 'Harlequin' is a creeping spindle tree, which produces stems in the form of runners (sarmentose). It bears variegated foliage of green and white, which becomes tinged with pink in autumn and winter. It is the ideal choice for growing in a pot or border.

Originally from China, the spindle tree is a perfectly hardy ground cover shrub, with slow growth. 'Harlequin' has a compact habit, with flexible branches that can be easily trained. Its height is around 40 cm (15.4 in). The evergreen, elliptical leaves, 3 cm to 6 cm (1.2 in to 2.4 in) long, are green splashed with white. In October, an insignificant flowering of small greenish-white flowers gives way to pink berries, which are toxic if ingested.

Euonymus fortunei 'Harlequin' is easy to grow and thrives in any well-drained soil, in a sunny or partially shaded location. Pruning is unnecessary; it is better to pinch the young plants to encourage branching and only remove dead or diseased wood.

Euonymus fortunei 'Harlequin' can be grown in a pot on a terrace, in a rock garden or border. You can even train it against a stone wall or shape it into topiary.

Tip: In case of drought, water to maintain a beautiful foliage.