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Strawberry Bush
Strawberry Bush
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Euonymus americanus
Strawberry Bush – Product Description
The Strawberry Bush, also known as Hearts-a-Bustin’, is a unique native shrub treasured for its whimsical fruit capsules, vibrant red seeds, and light, airy growth habit. Native to eastern woodlands, this shade-tolerant plant brings year-round interest and wildlife value to any garden.
Best suited for woodland gardens, native plantings, or shaded borders, the Strawberry Bush offers a delicate structure, colorful fall fruit, and low-maintenance charm that supports both pollinators and birds.
Strawberry Bush Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| 🌿 Botanical Name | Euonymus americanus |
| 🏷️ Common Names | Strawberry Bush, Hearts-a-Bustin’, Bursting Heart |
| 🌳 Mature Height | 4–6 feet |
| 🌐 Mature Width | 3–5 feet |
| 📈 Growth Rate | Moderate (1–2 feet per year) |
| ⏳ Lifespan | 20–40 years |
| 🧊 USDA Zones | 6–9 |
| ☀️ Sun Preference | Partial shade to full shade (best fruiting in dappled sun) |
| 🧱 Soil Type | Moist, well-drained loam or sandy soils |
| ⚖️ Soil pH | Slightly acidic to neutral (5.5–7.0) |
| 💧 Water Needs | Moderate; prefers consistent moisture |
| 🍓 Fruit Type | Pink capsules with red-orange seeds (not edible) |
| 🌸 Flower Color | Small greenish-purple flowers; spring bloom |
| 🐝 Pollination | Attracts bees, native insects, and birds |
| 🌿 Growth Habit | Open, airy, multi-stemmed shrub |
| ↔️ Spacing | 3–5 ft apart for borders or woodland groupings |
| 🏡 Landscape Uses | Shade gardens, native borders, woodland understories |
| 🧹 Maintenance Level | Low |
Environmental Benefits
🌸 Supports pollinators with spring blooms and minimal maintenance
🪶 Provides fall fruit for birds and small mammals
🌿 Grows well in woodland edges and shady naturalized spaces
🍁 Adds autumn interest with bright fruit and subtle foliage color
Pros & Cons
| ✅ Pros | ⚠️ Cons |
|---|---|
| 🍓 Unique seed capsules add fall and winter appeal | 🐛 May be browsed by deer in heavily populated areas |
| 🌿 Excellent for woodland or native plant gardens | 🌞 Needs shade; will suffer in full sun or drought |
| 🐝 Supports native wildlife and pollinators | ✂️ Pruning may be needed to maintain shape in formal beds |
| 🌱 Natural, open growth habit with minimal care | ❄️ Less cold-hardy in Zone 5 or colder |
| 🧬 Native plant with strong ecological value | 🪵 Not ideal for compact or heavily manicured landscapes |
Planting & Care Guide
🛁 Water thoroughly before and after planting
🕳️ Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball; keep crown level with soil surface
🌾 Mulch 2–3 inches deep to retain moisture and regulate temperature
💦 Water regularly during the first growing season; reduce once established
✂️ Prune in late winter to maintain size or shape if desired
🧪 Fertilize lightly in early spring with compost or balanced organic feed
The Strawberry Bush is a woodland treasure that adds a touch of wild charm and vibrant seasonal color to shaded gardens. With its airy form, pollinator-friendly flowers, and whimsical fall fruit, it’s a must-have for native landscapes, restoration sites, and nature-inspired gardens.
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