Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Euonymus fortuneii ‘Emerald ‘n’ Gold’
Emerald 'n' Gold Wintercreeper

- Family
- Celastraceae
- Height
- 1 to 2 feet
- Width
- 2 to 4 feet
- Flower color
- Greenish, inconspicuous
- Foliage color
- Deep green with a bright yellow edge
- Bloom time
- Early summer
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Medium; keep soil consistently moist
- Maintenance
- Low; prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5 to 9
- Wildlife
- Birds are attracted to the plant
About this plant
Euonymus fortunei 'Emerald 'n' Gold' is a versatile evergreen shrub renowned for its vibrant foliage and easy-to-grow nature. The most striking feature of 'Emerald 'n' Gold' is its glossy, oval leaves adorned with a bold, bright yellow edge that contrasts beautifully with the deep green center, adding a splash of color to the garden, especially in spring and summer. Although inconspicuous greenish flowers may appear in early summer, they are not a significant ornamental feature. Its compact size makes it ideal for borders, ground covers, or container planting.
Relatively low-maintenance, 'Emerald 'n' Gold' thrives in well-draining soil and full to partial sun, tolerating a wide range of soil types and becoming quite drought-tolerant once established, though regular watering is beneficial in hot, dry conditions. Pruning in late winter or early spring helps maintain its shape and encourages new growth, making it a popular choice for adding color and texture to gardens, borders, and containers.
Works well in
Sun Gardens · Borders · Containers · Pathways & Walkways
Companion plants
Boxwoods · Dwarf Korean fir · Bergenia · Maiden grass · Snowdrops · Agapanthus
Design tip
The low, spreading habit makes ‘Emerald ’n’ Gold’ useful for creating broad patches of evergreen color without adding much height. Its bright yellow margins can visually connect neighboring green and gold plants, while the foliage may develop attractive pinkish tones during colder weather.
