Euonymus atropurpureus

Euonymus atropurpureus, also known as American wahoo, burning bush, Indian arrow wood, or eastern wahoo, is a species of flowering plant in the family Celastraceae. It is native to North America, where it is found in the eastern and central United States and the southern part of Ontario, Canada.

Description

Euonymus atropurpureus is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can reach a height of up to 8 meters. The leaves are opposite, simple, and ovate to elliptic in shape. The flowers are small, with four purple petals, and are produced in the late spring. The fruit is a four-lobed capsule, which splits open in the fall to reveal bright red seeds.

Habitat and Distribution

Euonymus atropurpureus is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and riparian areas. It is tolerant of a range of soil conditions, but prefers moist, well-drained soils. The species is distributed throughout the eastern and central United States, from New England to the southern Appalachians and west to the Great Plains. It is also found in the southern part of Ontario, Canada.

Uses

The wood of Euonymus atropurpureus was used by Native Americans to make arrows, hence the common name "Indian arrow wood". The plant has also been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments, although its efficacy has not been scientifically proven.

Conservation Status

While Euonymus atropurpureus is not currently listed as threatened or endangered, its populations are declining in some parts of its range due to habitat loss and degradation.

Cultivation

Euonymus atropurpureus is occasionally grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage and fruit. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-8 and prefers full sun to partial shade.

References

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