Updated: March 27, 2022

If you’re planning to grow Euonymus plants in your garden, you may be wondering how much space you should leave between each plant. The answer depends on several factors, including the type of Euonymus plant, its expected size, and the purpose of the planting.

Factors to Consider

Before deciding on the spacing for your Euonymus plants, consider the following factors:

Type of Euonymus Plant

There are many different types of Euonymus plants, each with its own growth habit and size. For example, Euonymus japonicus ‘Green Spire’ is an upright shrub that grows up to 15 feet tall and 6 feet wide, while Euonymus fortunei ‘Coloratus’ is a low-growing ground cover that reaches only 1 foot tall and 4 feet wide. The spacing requirements for these two plants will be very different.

Expected Size

When planning your Euonymus planting, consider how large each plant is expected to grow. If you’re planting a hedge or screen, you’ll want to leave enough space between each plant to allow for full growth. However, if you’re using Euonymus as a ground cover or accent plant, you may want to plant them closer together for a more dense look.

Purpose of the Planting

Consider the purpose of your Euonymus planting. Are you looking to create a barrier or privacy screen? Or are you simply adding some color and texture to your garden? Your spacing will vary depending on your goals.

Recommended Spacing

Based on the factors listed above, here are some general guidelines for spacing Euonymus plants:

  • For upright shrubs like Euonymus japonicus ‘Green Spire’, plant them at least 6 feet apart.
  • For low-growing ground covers like Euonymus fortunei ‘Coloratus’, plant them 2 to 3 feet apart.
  • For Euonymus used as a hedge or screen, plant them closer together, about 2 to 3 feet apart, to allow for full growth and a dense appearance.
  • For Euonymus used as an accent plant or in a mixed planting, space them about 3 to 5 feet apart.

Tips for Planting Euonymus

When planting Euonymus, keep the following tips in mind:

  • Choose a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
  • Plant Euonymus in a location that receives partial shade to full sun.
  • Water your Euonymus regularly, especially during dry spells.
  • Mulch around your Euonymus plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  • Prune your Euonymus as needed to control its size and shape.

FAQ

Can I plant Euonymus in containers?

Yes, you can plant Euonymus in containers. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches wide and deep, and use a well-draining potting mix. Water your container-grown Euonymus regularly and fertilize every two weeks during the growing season.

How fast do Euonymus plants grow?

The growth rate of Euonymus plants varies depending on the type of plant and growing conditions. Some varieties grow quickly and can reach full size within a few years, while others may take longer.

Are Euonymus plants invasive?

Some varieties of Euonymus, such as Euonymus fortunei ‘Silver Queen’, can be invasive in certain areas. Check with your local extension office before planting to make sure it is not considered invasive in your region.