euonymus fortunei
Euonymus fortunei – Wintercreeper
The Euonymus fortunei species, commonly known as Wintergreen, is a low growing broadleaf evergreen shrub. Their flowers are insignificant and are typically used for the different colors of leaf varieties. They are very useful as edging plants and massed along slopes or beds.
‘Emerald Gaiety’ is a variegated evergreen shrub with green and white leaves, featuring a spreading habit that typically reaches a height of 2 to 4 feet and a width of 3 to 5 feet. This cultivar is frequently used for ground cover or as a low hedge due to its adaptable nature, thriving in various soil types and tolerating both sun and partial shade.
‘Emerald ‘n Gold’ is another variegated evergreen shrub, displaying green and gold-yellow leaves. It has a spreading habit with a typical height of 2 to 4 feet and a width of 3 to 5 feet. Often employed for ground cover, ‘Emerald ‘n Gold’ is known for its adaptability to different soil types and its ability to tolerate varying light conditions.
‘Coloratus’ is a non-variegated evergreen shrub with deep green foliage, characterized by a dense, spreading growth habit. This cultivar is commonly used as a ground cover or low hedge and typically reaches a height of 2 to 3 feet with a similar spread. ‘Coloratus’ is adaptable to different soil types and can thrive in full sun to partial shade.
Height: 3′ – 4′ (dwarf varieties are smaller)
Width: 4′ – 6′
Watering and soil: Moist, well drained.
Exposure: Full sun to part shade.
Varieties: Sarcoxie, Emerald Gaiety, Emerald ‘N Gold, Gold Splash, Coloratus.
Euonymus fortunei cultivars like ‘Emerald Gaiety,’ ‘Emerald ‘n Gold,’ and ‘Coloratus’ are well-suited for Northern Illinois gardens due to their adaptability and resilience to the region’s climate. These evergreen shrubs can withstand colder temperatures and provide year-round interest in the landscape. Their versatility allows them to thrive in various soil types commonly found in the area, contributing to their popularity in garden designs.
Complemented companion plants; Incorporating hardy perennials such as sedum varieties, daylilies (Hemerocallis), and ornamental grasses like Miscanthus can provide additional texture and visual interest. Low-maintenance ground covers such as Pachysandra terminalis or Vinca minor can work well alongside these Euonymus, creating a cohesive and easy-to-manage garden setting. Additionally, incorporating native plants like Amelanchier (Serviceberry) or Ilex verticillata (Winterberry) can enhance biodiversity and support local ecosystems in Northern Illinois.
See: Shrubs and Roses
Category: Sun Perennials – Sun Plants – Sunny Plants – Shrubs – Deciduous Shrubs – Wintercreeper near me – Euonymus fortunei
Image: ‘Silver Queen’
Image: Emerald