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Northwest Blooms · Shrubs

Euonymus alatus ‘Monstrosus’

Monstrosus Burning Bush

Euonymus alatus ‘Monstrosus’
Family
Celastraceae
Height
6 to 8 feet tall
Width
8 to 10 feet wide
Flower color
Inconspicuous green flowers
Foliage color
Green foliage that turns vivid red in autumn
Bloom time
Late spring to early summer
Light
Prefers full sun to partial shade
Water
Moderate
Maintenance
Low; pruning can enhance shape
Growing zone
USDA zones 4 to 8
Wildlife
The berries attract birds

About this plant

Euonymus alatus 'Monstrosus', a variety of burning bush, is renowned for its dense, upright growth habit and vivid fall color. During the growing season, its green, ovate leaves provide a lush appearance, but in autumn, the foliage transforms into a brilliant red, creating a dramatic seasonal display. Small, inconspicuous greenish flowers appear in late spring to early summer, often followed by tiny red capsules that split to reveal orange seeds, adding subtle ornamental interest.

Originating as a cultivated selection, this variety is prized for its adaptability and tolerance to various conditions. It is commonly used in landscapes for hedging or as a standout specimen. The plant's name, 'Monstrosus,' reflects its robust and densely branching form, which enhances its utility in gardens and formal settings alike. Its unique autumnal display has made it a popular choice for enhancing seasonal interest in temperate climates.

Works well in

Sun Gardens · Formal Gardens · Hedging & Privacy · Specimen Plants

Companion plants

Tickseed · Russian sage · Potentilla · Fountain grass · Basket-of-gold · Lily of the Nile

Design tip

The unusually dense, upright branching makes ‘Monstrosus’ well suited to more structured garden compositions. Its broad form can define a boundary or anchor a formal planting during the growing season, then become dramatically more prominent when the foliage turns brilliant red in autumn.