Euonymus Japonicus Benkomasaki Japanese Spindle

The Euonymus (Spindle) family of small trees or shrubs can be deciduous such as the European Spindle or evergreen such as Fortunes Spindle. Euonymus Japonicus Benkomasaki is a new variety of evergreen Japanese Spindle Tree with an upright growth habit that’s perfect for hedging. 

Japanese Spindle trees are native to China, Japan and Korea. Benkomasaki is a new cultivar with an especially upright habit that suits the UK climate.  This fastigiate evergreen spindle has small glossy green leaves that grow along the length of its upright branches in thick dense cover. New spring growth is paler than the old and it matures over the summer months. In June and July, small white flowers appear which are not that noticeable but are found by pollinators. Small dark berries may appear if it’s left unclipped. In winter Japanese Spindle Benkomasaki holds onto its foliage and looks especially attractive covered in frosts. 

Height And Spread Of Euonymus Japonicus Benkomasaki
This upright fastigiate spindle will reach a maximum height of 2.5 metres and spread over a metre. It is slow-growing and can take 10 years to reach this size. 

How Hardy Is Euonymus Japonicus Benkomasaki
Like all Japanese Spindle trees, Japanese Spindle Benkomasaki is hardy down to sub-zero temperatures and is drought tolerant once established. It is rarely affected by pests but may develop powdery mildew if left to dry out when recently planted. 

How To Use Euonymus Japonicus Benkomasaki
This is an architectural shrub that brings height and colour to a garden whether its planted in a border, grown as a shelter or dividing fence, or grouped in pots on the patio. It looks particularly good in rock or Japanese style gardens and creates a natural flowering hedge in cottage gardens if left to grow without pruning.  This shrub can be used as an alternative to a low box or yew hedge or simply to bring vertical interest in flat spaces. 

How To Care For Euonymus Japonicus Benkomasaki
Japanese Spindle Benkomasaki needs little care once established. Plant yours in well-drained fertile soil of any type and water well until established. Japanese spindle trees enjoy full sun or partial shade.  Clip back to maintain the height you require or leave to naturalise. Benkomasaki is slow-growing and won’t take over your space. A thick layer of mulch each spring traps moisture, cuts down on weed competition, and ensures bright fresh growth during the growing season.