Eastern Wahoo (Euonymus atropurpurea)

Size: 8-15′ tall/6-15′ wide.

Sometimes referred to as “burning bush”, the name ‘Wahoo’ is derived from the Native American Otoe word meaning arrowwood. It’s a native plant that can be grown into a large shrub or small tree, up to 15 feet tall, or trimmed to maintain a lower height. The branches are gray to dark brown with ridges or scales, like the non-native winged Euonymus or “burning bush” plants. Wahoo plants produce crimson-red, fleshy fruit in four-lobed capsules that attract a wide variety of birds. The fruit remains on the plant all winter. People are drawn to its outstanding fall color of pink to deep red leaves. It is an adaptable plant, able to withstand hot, dry conditions along with moist and cool conditions. Grows in full sun to part shade. Older, specimen plants will develop horizontal branching. Great for naturalized plantings.

NOTE:  In some states, Eastern Wahoo is considered an invasive, or potentially invasive species.