Golden Euonymus (Euonymus japonicus 'Aureo-marginatus')

The Golden Euonymus is a vibrant, evergreen shrub prized for its bold, variegated foliage featuring bright golden-yellow and green leaves. This low-maintenance, adaptable plant brings year-round color and contrast to gardens and landscapes, making it a favorite for hedges, foundation plantings, and accent borders.

Key Features:

1. Foliage: Large, oval-shaped leaves with deep green centers and bright yellow margins. The variegation is bold and consistent, providing a splash of color throughout the year.

2. Growth Habit: Grows in a dense, upright to rounded form. Reaches 6 to 10 feet tall and 4 to 6 feet wide, but responds well to pruning if a smaller size or more formal shape is desired.

3. Evergreen: Keeps its colorful foliage year-round, offering four-season interest even in winter when many other plants are dormant.

4. Hardiness: Suitable for USDA zones 6–9, with good heat and drought tolerance once established.

General Care Tips:

1. Light: Best in full sun to partial shade. More sun promotes the brightest variegation, though it tolerates moderate shade.

2. Soil: Tolerates a wide range of soils, including clay, loam, and sandy types. Prefers well-drained soils and adapts to varying pH levels.

3. Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system. Once established, it is moderately drought-tolerant, though consistent moisture yields the best foliage.

4. Pruning: Prune in late winter to early spring to shape or control size. Tolerates heavy pruning and can be maintained as a hedge, topiary, or formal border.

5. Fertilization: Feed with a general-purpose fertilizer in early spring to promote vigorous growth.

6. Pests & Diseases: Watch for scale insects, which can sometimes be a problem. Inspect regularly and treat as needed with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.

Landscape Uses:

• Eye-catching hedge or screen

• Colorful foundation plant

• Bright accent in mixed borders

• Container plant for patios or entrances

• Contrast planting against darker evergreens

Golden Euonymus offers bold color, year-round interest, and exceptional versatility in a wide range of settings. Its ability to thrive in difficult conditions while maintaining bright foliage makes it a top choice for low-maintenance, high-impact landscaping.