Euonymus americanus

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Euonymus americanus
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae Division: Magnoliophyta Class: Magnoliopsida Order: Celastrales Family: Celastraceae Genus: Euonymus Species: E. americanus
Binomial name
Euonymus americanus

Euonymus americanus is commonly referred to as Strawberry Bush, Bursting Hearts or Hearts a bustin'. The common names all refer to the plant's seed pods which first appear in mid-summer. It is an evergreen plant, though the number of leaves is greatly diminshed during the winter. The plant is notable for its photosynthetic stems and its seed distribution method. Once the seeds have ripened in mid-autumn the red capsules burst open, scattering the orange seeds up to 15 feet.

The leaves are well-liked by deer, which often strip the bush bare. E. americanus will spread by underground runners forming small thickets. Stems which come in contact with the ground will readily root. The stems are relatively weak and taller plants lean against other shrubs or trees for support.

The plant flowers in late April/early May

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Open seed pods in late fall

Green stems are striking during winter

Leaves and growth tips

Flowers

Flowers and buds

[edit] External links

• USDA plant profile