Euonymus europaeus Common spindle tree, Spindle

Celastraceae

Euonymus europaeus Common spindle tree, Spindle

Medium to small tree than can grow to approx. 3 - 6 m in height. The branches are green and definitely square, they are usually smooth but sometimes have corky wings. The matt-gloss leaves turn red in the autumn. The flowers are unremarkable and are in bundles of 3 to 5. Fiery-looking fruit appears after flowering: the bright orange seeds are surrounded by a brilliant rose-coloured 4-sided fruit husk. In combination with the autumn colour this makes the tree a remarkable sight in the latter part of the year. The fruit is poisonous. Euonymous has a very densely branched root system and grows both on dry sites and in places where temporary flooding occurs. Excellent winter hardiness. Well resistant to sea wind.
Our trees can only be planted when they don't have any leaves. Due to the this we will start delivering again from November 2025.
Availability
Specifications
Download PDF
Height
3 - 6 m
Width
3-6m
Crown
round, half-open crown
Bark and branches
grey, sometimes slightly grooved, twigs green
Leaf
oval to elongated, dark green, 4 - 7 cm
Autumn colour
red
Flowers
in small umbellules, greenish-yellow, May/June
Fruits
rose-red, seeds orange
Spines/thorns
None
Toxicity
has toxic components
Soil type
all types, but must be well drained
Soil moisture
suitable for dry soil, suitable for wet soil, withstand short flood
Paving
tolerates partial paving
Winter hardiness zone
4 (-34,4 to -28,9 °C)
Wind resistance
very good
Other resistances
resistant to frost (WH 1 - 6), can withstand wind
Fauna tree
provides food for birds
Application
tree containers, roof gardens, industrial areas, small gardens, patio gardens
Shape
clearstem tree, multi-stem treem
Origin
Western Asia
Clear stem tree Multi-stem tree clay soil loamy soil peaty soil sandy soil tolerates partial paving resistant to frost (WH 1 - 6) suitable for shadow suitable for dry soil suitable for wet soil withstand short flood can withstand wind 3rd size, smaller than 6 metres half-open crown green yellowgreen early sprout average growing all species Attractive autumn colour provides food for birds toxic components Ornamental fruit
Frequently asked questions
Euonymus europaeus

Euonymus europaeus can eventually reach a height of 3 - 6 m, depending on the site and climate conditions.

Euonymus europaeus is average growing and can eventually reach a height of 3 - 6 m, depending on the site and climate conditions.

The leaves of Euonymus europaeus turn red in autumn.

The right time to plant Euonymus europaeus is during the dormancy period. In Western Europe, Euonymus europaeus with root balls can generally be planted from mid-November to late April, although this depends strongly on the climatic conditions and the species of tree.

Euonymus europaeus blooms in may.
General

Yes, we deliver to the UK. Delivery costs depend on the region and the total order value. Below, you’ll find all the details.

Delivery charges for private customers are calculated based on your region and are visible during the checkout process. We also offer discounts based on the total value of your order:

  • Orders over £1,000: Receive a 50% discount on delivery costs.
  • Orders over £2,000: Delivery is completely free.

Yes, for trees with a size of 50-60 cm girth or larger, additional delivery charges apply due to the need for specialised transport. These costs will be calculated separately and shared with you after your order is placed. We will contact you to discuss the transport options and costs.

Once you add items to your basket and proceed to the checkout, the system will calculate the delivery charges for your region. If your order qualifies for any discounts, they will automatically be applied.

For any questions or specific delivery requests, feel free to contact our customer service team. We’re happy to help arrange the best delivery solution for your order.