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Key characteristics

Family: Celastraceae
Height: 5 to 8 feet
Width: 5 feet
Flower color: Greenish-white, inconspicuous
Foliage color: Dark green with bright yellow margins
Bloom time: May to June
Light: Full sun to partial shade; foliage color is best in full sun
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low; tolerates wind, heat, and poor soil; can be trimmed to maintain shape
Growing zone: USDA Zones 5 to 9
Wildlife: Birds are attracted to its berries

Shrubs

Euonymus japonicus 'Aureo Marginata'

Golden Euonymus

Euonymus japonicus 'Aureo Marginata', commonly known as Golden Euonymus, is an evergreen shrub valued for its vibrant, variegated foliage. The glossy green leaves are edged with bright golden-yellow margins, adding year-round color and visual interest. In late spring to early summer, it produces small, inconspicuous greenish flowers, which may be followed by small, ornamental pink to red berries in autumn if conditions are favorable.

Native to Japan, Euonymus japonicus 'Aureo Marginata' is widely cultivated for its colorful foliage, berries, and versatility in garden settings.

Light

Full sun to partial shade; foliage color is best in full sun

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

May to June

Find this plant

Works well in

Sun Gardens
Borders
Containers
Pathways & Walkways

Companion plants

Manzanita · California lilac · Poppy · Foxtail lily · Oregano · Globe artichoke

Design tip

Because its strongest feature is year-round gold-edged foliage, ‘Aureo Marginata’ can establish a repeating color rhythm through a larger planting. Using two or three specimens at intervals carries the same golden accent across the garden while allowing flowering plants between them.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)