Euonymus alatus 'Compactus’

Euonymus alatus 'Compactus’: The Classic Burning Bush

'Compactus' is the quintessential burning bush, treasured for its blazing scarlet-red foliage in autumn that creates a dramatic seasonal show. During the growing season, it maintains a dense, mounded form with neat green leaves and distinctive corky winged stems that offer subtle winter texture. More compact than the species, this cultivar fits beautifully into mixed borders, foundation plantings, and mass displays where a reliable pop of fall colour is needed.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 150–180 cm (5–6 ft)
• Spread: 150–180 cm (5–6 ft)
• Flower Colour: Inconspicuous greenish flowers
• Flowering Period: Late spring
• Foliage: Medium green; brilliant red in fall
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to part shade
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained; tolerant of a wide range of soils

Uses and Benefits: Ideal for hedging, massing, or as a stand-alone focal point, 'Compactus' delivers unmatched fall colour and year-round structure. It’s a low-maintenance choice for large and small landscapes, urban or rural, and brings fiery seasonal drama with minimal fuss.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun for best fall colour. Water during establishment and in prolonged droughts. Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape. Tolerates clay, loam, and sand-based soils.

History: A compact cultivar of the East Asian native Euonymus alatus, 'Compactus' has long been favoured in ornamental horticulture for its dramatic fall display and architectural branching.

Final Thoughts: Bold, dependable, and seasonally spectacular, 'Compactus' is a landscape classic that continues to earn its place in Canadian gardens.