Variegated Boxleaf Euonymus
Euonymus japonicus microphyllus 'Variegatus'
Also known as Evergreen Euonymus, Evergreen Spindle, Evergreen Spindletree
Climate Match for your location
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A compact evergreen shrub with tiny, variegated foliage of cream and green, prized for its ornamental leaf color and fine texture. Slow-growing and ideal for hedging, borders, or containers.
Why grow it
Variegated Boxleaf Euonymus offers finer texture and more restrained growth than standard Euonymus japonicus, making it better suited to small-scale hedging, foundation plantings, and container work where space is limited. The cream-and-green variegation provides year-round visual interest in mixed borders without requiring seasonal color rotation. Its slow growth rate reduces pruning frequency compared to faster-growing boxwood alternatives.
Watch out for
In warmer climates or full sun exposure, the foliage may develop scorch or lose variegation intensity, so afternoon shade is beneficial in hot regions. Container specimens require consistent moisture and good drainage to prevent root stress, particularly during establishment. Spider mites can become problematic in hot, dry conditions, so air circulation and monitoring are worth attention.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Celastraceae
Native Range
Japan
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Tolerances & Soil
pH Range
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A compact evergreen shrub with tiny, variegated foliage of cream and green, prized for its ornamental leaf color and fine texture. Slow-growing and ideal for hedging, borders, or containers.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Variegated Boxleaf Euonymus grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Variegated Boxleaf Euonymus offers finer texture and more restrained growth than standard Euonymus japonicus, making it better suited to small-scale hedging, foundation plantings, and container work where space is limited. The cream-and-green variegation provides year-round visual interest in mixed borders without requiring seasonal color rotation. Its slow growth rate reduces pruning frequency compared to faster-growing boxwood alternatives.
Watch out for
In warmer climates or full sun exposure, the foliage may develop scorch or lose variegation intensity, so afternoon shade is beneficial in hot regions. Container specimens require consistent moisture and good drainage to prevent root stress, particularly during establishment. Spider mites can become problematic in hot, dry conditions, so air circulation and monitoring are worth attention.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Celastraceae
Native Range
Japan
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Tolerances & Soil
pH Range
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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