Euonymus clivicolus var. rongchuensis - Spindle

The Euonymus clivicolus var. rongchuensis is a deciduous spindle tree that is still rarely available for sale. This Chinese species will delight collectors of rare shrubs and is distinguished by its modest growth, its long lanceolate leaves, but above all by its curious and decorative fruiting that lasts a long time in winter. The large fruits with well-developed 5 wings change from cream to pink and then to bright pink when opening to reveal very bright orange berries. Place this amazing spindle tree in a prominent position, in partial shade and in soil that remains fresh, for example in the centre of a large bed of perennials and low-growing shrubs.

This spindle tree, native to southwest China, has similarities with the Euonymus cornutus var. quinquecornutus, which is more commonly cultivated: it resembles it in the appearance of its fruits and foliage. However, it has the advantage of having a more upright habit and slightly faster growth. All these shrubs in the Celastraceae family are native to Asia.

The Euonymus clivicolus is a moderately fast-growing shrub with an upright habit, slightly flaring upwards. Its growth remains modest, on average 1.50m (4 ft 11 in) tall and 90 cm (35.4 in) wide at maturity. Its final size is estimated to be a maximum of 2.50 m (8 ft 2 in) in height in our gardens. Its branches bear long, narrow leaves, more or less upright, 7 to 10 cm (2.8 to 3.9 in) long. They are medium green, shiny, thick, lanceolate, with finely toothed edges. This foliage remains attached to the branches for a long time before falling.

The flowering, discreet but long-lasting, occurs from April to June. The small flowers, speckled with faded purple, are grouped in clusters or corymbs. They measure about 1cm (0.4 in) in diameter and have 4 tiny petals. They attract pollinating insects and gradually form original and very decorative fruits until winter. The fruit's envelope, equipped with 5 large wing-shaped or horn-shaped protrusions, changes from cream yellow to pink and then to bright pink. It gradually opens to let hang the very pronounced bright orange berries. Do not be fooled by this beautiful appearance, they are not edible, nor are any other parts of the shrub: leaves and bark. Keep them out of the reach of children who may be tempted by this attractive fruiting. However, birds will be satisfied with them in winter.

This original spindle tree is a very interesting shrub for garden decoration in autumn and winter. Its unusual and remarkably coloured fruiting makes it a choice specimen that the gardener will pause in front of for long moments. It can be placed in the foreground of a bed of shrubs chosen for their autumn colours (Cotinus, other deciduous spindle trees, Hamamelis), but also in the centre of a small scene composed of late-flowering robust perennials: asters, tall sedums, colourful Miscanthus and panicles, Japanese anemones and eupatoriums.