General Culture:
Grow in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in sun to shade. Tolerates wide range of soils and soil conditions, except for wet ones. Spreads by creeping stems which root where they touch the ground. Good tolerance for urban condition
Noteworthy Characteristics:
Euonymus fortunei (wintercreeper euonymus) is a dense, woody-stemmed, broadleaf evergreen plant which comes in a variety of forms. It may be a trailing ground cover, a mounding shrub or a climbing vine. 'Kewensis' is a very low-growing, prostrate, trailing ground cover form which typically grows to only 1-3" tall and spreads indefinitely as a dense, sprawling mat. Somewhat similar in habit to English ivy (Hedera helix - R450) in that it spreads along the ground, rooting as it goes, until it reaches a vertical surface which it may begin to climb. It features lustrous, pea-sized (to 5/8" long), dark green leaves. Inconspicuous, greenish-white flowers may appear in June. Flowers are at best sparse, but are usually not present. If given support, 'Kewensis' will climb a wall or other structure in which form it is more likely to flower and fruit.
Problems:
Euonymus scale can be a significant problem and should be treated if it appears. Anthracnose, crown gall, leaf spot, mildew and aphids can also be problems. In optimum growing conditions, spread can be somewhat invasive and should be monitored.
Uses:
Versatile, small-leaved, low ground cover for sunny or shady areas in the landscape. With support, it will climb.
© Missouri Botanical
Garden, 2001-2010
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