Euonymus europaeus
Pope's hat
Common names: Spindle shrub, Pope's pocket
This description was machine-translated.
Description
The Pope's hat (Euonymus europaeus) is a native wild shrub suitable for naturalistic gardens and hedge borders. In autumn it displays distinctive fruiting: bright pink‑orange capsule fruits that split to release orange seeds, accompanied by a strong red‑yellow autumn leaf color. All plant parts are toxic, especially the conspicuous fruits that may tempt children to taste them. It is a valuable component of a wildlife hedge, providing food for birds and butterflies.
Care instructions
Prefers semi‑shaded to sunny sites on well‑drained, calcareous soil and tolerates drier periods once established. Water young plants regularly for the first one to two years; thereafter water only during prolonged dry spells. Pruning is usually unnecessary; if shape control is desired, prune in winter after leaf fall or early spring before new growth. The shrub is frost‑hardy and requires no winter protection. Wear gloves when pruning and wash hands afterward, as all parts are poisonous.
Soil & site
Soil pH
Soil type
well-drained, lime-loving, loamy, nutrient-rich
Feeding
Light feeder
Pruning
Notes from real gardens
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