Euonymus europaeus 'Red Cascade' | 10 Litre Pot | 80cm - 100cm Height

Price range: £41.87 through £51.30

Common Names

  • Spindle tree

Euonymus europaeus ‘Red Cascade’ is a magnificent deciduous shrub, showcasing brilliant crimson and purple autumn foliage. Its vibrant pink-red fruits reveal bright orange seeds, offering superb wildlife appeal. Perfect for dramatic seasonal interest in UK gardens.

25 in stock

£51.30
1 – 2 pieces
£46.58 (9% off)
3 – 4 pieces
£43.74 (15% off)
5 – 9 pieces
£41.87 (18% off)
10 – 25 pieces
1
Euonymus europaeus 'Red Cascade'
£51.30

Euonymus europaeus ‘Red Cascade’ offers a stunning autumn display, making it a brilliant addition to any British garden seeking vibrant seasonal colour and interest.

The enchanting Euonymus europaeus ‘Red Cascade’, commonly known as Spindle tree, is a deciduous shrub or small tree celebrated for its spectacular seasonal transformation. Originating from Europe, this cultivar brings an extraordinary splash of colour. Its captivating beauty ensures it stands out, transitioning from lush green foliage to a dramatic autumnal spectacle that truly lives up to its name.

Key Features of Euonymus europaeus ‘Red Cascade’

  • Stunning autumn foliage in vibrant reds and purples.
  • Eye-catching pink-red fruits that split open to reveal bright orange seeds.
  • Attracts birds to the garden, providing a valuable food source.
  • A hardy and versatile plant suitable for various garden settings.
  • Provides year-round structural interest, particularly in winter.

Plant Profile and Naming

Euonymus europaeus ‘Red Cascade’ is a cherished deciduous shrub or small tree, belonging to the Celastraceae family. Its species name, ‘europaeus’, highlights its European origins. The cultivar name ‘Red Cascade’ aptly describes its incredible autumn appearance. It forms a graceful, upright structure, thriving in many UK garden conditions. The common name, Spindle tree, stems from its historical use. People once made spindles from its tough wood. This rich history adds to its charm.

Foliage, Flowers, and Fruit Display

In spring, Euonymus europaeus ‘Red Cascade’ shows fresh green leaves. These provide a soft, verdant backdrop all through summer. As autumn approaches, a remarkable change occurs. The foliage transforms into brilliant shades of crimson, fiery orange, and deep purple. This creates a breathtaking visual show.

Small, inconspicuous green flowers appear in late spring to early summer. While not showy, these flowers are important. They develop into its most distinguishing feature: bright pink-red, four-lobed capsules. These ripen in autumn, splitting open to reveal vivid orange seeds. They hang like jewels along the branches.

Garden Uses and Wildlife Appeal

Gardeners often choose Euonymus europaeus ‘Red Cascade’ for its strong seasonal interest. It makes an excellent specimen plant. You can also plant it in mixed borders. Its vibrant autumn colour provides a striking focal point. Furthermore, it works well in informal hedging.

The brilliant fruits offer more than just beauty. They provide a vital food source for birds during colder months. Many bird species enjoy the bright orange seeds. This makes the Spindle tree a valuable asset for wildlife gardens. Its dense habit also offers shelter.

Maintenance and Pruning

Euonymus europaeus ‘Red Cascade’ is generally easy to care for. It thrives in well-drained soil. This plant tolerates various soil types, including clay and chalk. It prefers full sun to partial shade. Minimal pruning is usually needed.

However, you can prune to shape the plant. You can also remove any dead or crossing branches. Do this in late winter or early spring. This ensures a healthy and attractive plant. Its robust nature makes it a great choice for many gardeners.

Max Height 3.50 at maturity
Max Spread 3.00 at maturity
Growth Rate Average
Average growth
Position
Full Sun Partial Sun Partial Shade
Soil Type
Clay Sandy Silt Loam Chalk
H6 H6 – Hardy in severe conditions

Very hardy. Tolerates temperatures typical of a continental winter.

−25°C +15°C
Typical minimum: -20°C to -15°C

Care Notes

Euonymus europaeus 'Red Cascade' thrives in well-drained soil, tolerating a range of types from clay to chalk. Plant in a location that receives full sun to partial shade for the best autumn colour and fruit production. Water regularly during its first year to establish a strong root system, and during prolonged dry spells thereafter. Minimal pruning is required; however, you can trim in late winter or early spring to maintain its desired shape or remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. This keeps the plant healthy and encourages good form. Fertilisation is generally not necessary in good garden soil, but a balanced slow-release feed can be applied in spring if growth appears sluggish.

Important Note

This plant is deciduous so it will lose all of its leaves in the autumn and get fresh new foliage each spring.