Euonymus europaeus L. Common Spindle

Euonymus europaeus L. - Common Spindle

Scientific Description:

Differs from Euonymus latifolius (L.) Mill. in its ± quadrangular, sulcate twigs, leaves rugose on both surfaces, terminal buds ovoid, 2−4 mm, the outer pair of scales enclosing the others, flowers usually 4-numerous, fruiting pedicels stiffly erect, and fruit unwinged.

 

Flowering time: April−June.

Habitat: Scrub, forest, banks, s.l.−1600 m.

 

Reference:

Coode MJE & Cullen J (1967). Euonymus europaeus L., In: Davis PH (ed.), Flora of Turkey and the East Aegean Islands, Edinburgh University Press, Edinburgh, 2: 551.

Public Description:

Euonymus europaeus, known as “European spindle” or “common spindle”, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that is native to much of Europe. The plant is between 3 and 6 meters in size and has very small yellowish-green flowers. The common spindle is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and parks due to its bright pink or purple fruits and attractive autumn colouring, in addition to its resistance to frost and wind. This species includes some toxic alkaloids. Poisoning is common in small children who are attracted by brightly colored fruit. The ingestion of the fruit may cause liver and kidney damage and even death. It blooms between April and June and can be seen in woodland and bushes.

 

References:

Anonymous 1 (2016). https://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/s/spindl82.html, Accessed date: 04.01.2016.

Anonymous 2 (2016). https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Euonymus_europaeus/, Accessed date: 04.01.2016.

Aslan S (2012). Euonymus L. In: Güner, A., Aslan, S., Ekim, T., Vural, M. & Babaç, M.T. (eds.), Türkiye Bitkileri Listesi (Damarlı Bitkiler). Nezahat Gökyiğit Botanik Bahçesi ve Flora Araştırmaları Derneği Yayını. İstanbul, pp. 367–368.