Euonymus lucidus, commonly known as Spindle Tree, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the temperate Himalayan forests from Pakistan to northern Assam. It typically grows to a height of 20-33 feet with a dense, spreading crown. The plant features glossy green leaves and small, inconspicuous greenish flowers that give way to distinctive, colorful fruits with arillate seeds that are attractive to birds. The fruits are often pink to red capsules that open to reveal orange to red-coated seeds, adding ornamental interest in the late summer and autumn.

The Spindle Tree is valued for its year-round foliage and the colorful display of its fruits, which can add visual interest to gardens and landscapes. It is used in cultivation for hedging, as a specimen plant, or in shrub borders. It prefers well-drained soil, tolerates a range of soil types, and requires moderate watering. While it can grow in full sun to part shade, it thrives best in sheltered locations that mimic its native forest habitat. Euonymus lucidus is known to be relatively low-maintenance, but it can be susceptible to scale insects and fungal diseases. Gardeners should be cautious about its potential invasiveness, as it can spread beyond its intended area, particularly in regions with similar climates to its native habitat.CC BY-SA 4.0