Winged Spindle Tree

Euonymus alatus apterus

Physical Characteristics

Euonymus alatus apterus is a deciduous Shrub growing to 2 m (6ft) by 3 m (9ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - Japan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Hedge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Leaves Edible Uses: Tea Young leaves, boiled[105, 177]. The fruit may be edible[105, 177]. No further details. The fruit is about 8mm in diameter[200]. These reports of edibility should be treated with some caution, see the notes above on toxicity. The flowers are a tea substitute[178].

Medicinal Uses

Anodyne Anthelmintic Antiphlogistic Astringent Blood tonic Carminative Emmenagogue Anodyne, anthelmintic, antiphlogistic, astringent[178]. The stem and branches are alterative, analgesic, anthelmintic, anticoagulant, antipruritic, blood tonic, carminative, emmenagogue and purgative[147, 218]. A decoction is used in the treatment of 'cold' headache, general body aches, pruritis, irregular menstruation and other gynaecological diseases[147]. Plants contain the anticancer compound dulcitol[218].

Known Hazards

Although no records of toxicity have been seen for this species, a number of plants in this genus are suspected of being poisonous and so some caution is advised.