Strawberry Bush

(Euonymus americanus)

Strawberry Bush (Euonymus americanus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Euonymus americanus, commonly known as Strawberry Bush, is a deciduous shrub native to the understory of deciduous forests in the Eastern United States. It typically grows to a height of 2-3.5 meters and features a loose, open form. The Strawberry Bush produces inconspicuous white and green flowers in the spring, followed by distinctive, warty pink fruit capsules that resemble strawberries, which open in the fall to reveal bright orange seeds. These fruits are highly ornamental and are a notable benefit of the plant in cultivation, attracting various wildlife, including birds and mammals such as white-tailed deer and rabbits.

Strawberry Bush is valued for its unique fruits and its ability to thrive in shaded conditions, making it an excellent choice for woodland gardens, naturalized areas, or as an understory plant in larger landscapes. It prefers part shade but can tolerate full shade, requires medium amounts of water, and grows best in well-drained soils with rich organic matter. While it is not flood-tolerant, it does well in moderately moist conditions. Gardeners should be aware that although it is not aggressive, it can spread through root suckers and may require management in small garden settings.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 4-6 feet
  • Width: 4-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant

Natural Habitat

Understory of deciduous forests in the Eastern United States, with a loose, open form, and distinctive pink fruit capsules

Other Names

Common Names: Hearts-A-Busting, Bursting-Heart, American Strawberrybush, Hearts-Bustin’-With-Love

Scientific Names: , Euonymus americanus, Euonymus americanus var. angustifolius, Euonymus angustifolius, Euonymus alternifolius, Euonymus americanus var. sarmentosus, Euonymus heterophylus, Euonymus muricatus, Euonymus sarmentosus, Euonymus sempervirens,

GBIF Accepted Name: Euonymus americanus L.