Plant Details

• Botanical NameEuonymus Canadale Gold
• Common NameEuonymus Canadale Gold
• Size & GrowthTypically 2–4 ft tall and 2–4 ft wide; compact, mounding habit. Can be kept smaller with light shearing; may reach the upper range in mild climates.
• Hardiness ZonesUSDA 5–9 (provide winter wind protection in exposed Zone 5 sites).
• Foliage TypeEvergreen; dense, glossy leaves with bright gold and green variegation for year-round color.
• Bloom TimeLate spring to early summer; small greenish-white flowers are inconspicuous (grown for foliage).
• Growth RateModerate; about 6–12 inches per year in favorable conditions.
• Light RequirementsFull sun to part shade (4–8 hours). Best gold tones with good sun; provide afternoon shade in hot climates to reduce leaf scorch.
• Attracts PollinatorsModest; small blooms may draw bees and hoverflies but it’s not a primary nectar plant.
• Indoor FriendlyBetter outdoors; can be kept indoors short-term in a bright, cool spot with strong light and good airflow.
• Container FriendlyExcellent for pots and planters; choose a 12–16+ inch container with ample drainage.
• Deer ResistantGenerally deer-resistant, though hungry deer may sample new growth.
• Pet WarningAll parts can be toxic if ingested; may cause vomiting/diarrhea in pets. Sap can irritate skin—wear gloves when pruning.
• FragrantNot notably fragrant; grown primarily for foliage.
• Cut FlowerFoliage stems make long-lasting greenery for arrangements and wreaths.
• Grows Well WithGrows Well With Boxwood, dwarf conifers, Heuchera, Lavender, Salvia, Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa), Hydrangea, and Roses.

Note: Attribute ranges reflect typical performance for variegated evergreen euonymus in average garden conditions.

Care Tips

• Planting InstructionsPlant in spring or fall. Dig a hole 2× as wide and the same depth as the root ball. Tease circling roots, set crown level with soil, backfill, firm gently, and water thoroughly.
• Soil MoistureKeep evenly moist the first season; water deeply and allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Once established, moderately drought tolerant; avoid soggy soils.
• Soil TypeAdaptable to loam, clay, or sandy soils with good drainage; prefers pH 6.0–7.5. Tolerates urban conditions and light salt spray.
• HumidityAverage outdoor humidity is ideal. Provide good air circulation to reduce risk of scale and powdery mildew.
• Pruning InstructionsLightly shape in late winter or after the spring flush. Shear hedges as needed. Promptly remove any all-green “reverting” shoots to preserve variegation.
• Winter CareMulch 2–3 inches, keeping it off the stems. Shelter from harsh winter winds/sun in exposed sites. For containers, move to a protected spot and prevent repeated freeze–thaw of the root ball.
• Planting DepthSet the top of the root ball level with, or up to 0.5 inch above, surrounding soil. Create a shallow watering basin and a mulch “donut,” not touching the stems.
• FertilizationFeed in early spring with a balanced, slow‑release fertilizer (e.g., 10‑10‑10) at label rates or top-dress with compost. Avoid heavy nitrogen late in the season.
• Special CareMonitor for euonymus scale; treat with dormant horticultural oil in late winter and encourage airflow. Space plants 24–36 in apart. Best foliage color develops with at least 4 hours of sun.