Spindle (Euonymus europaeus)
Spindle (Euonymus europaeus) is a deciduous shrub or small tree that grows to around 3 to 6 m tall. In autumn their berries often show a beautiful bright red colour.
Useful info about Spindle trees
| Latin Name | Euonymus europaeus |
| Type | Deciduous (loses its leaves in winter) |
| Height | Can grow up to 5 - 10 metres (18 - 35 feet) |
| Spread | The branches can spread out to 1 - 5 metres (3 - 18 feet) |
| Soil Types Preferred | Chalk, Clay, Limestone, Loam, Sand |
| Locations Suitable | Farmland, Gardens, Parks |
| Flowers | Yellow flowers in spring |
| Fruit | Pink / red berries in autumn |
Similar Species
Description
Spindle trees are in flower from May to June and the seeds ripen from September to November.
The leaves are opposite and are 3 to 8 cm long and 1-3 cm broad. They have a finely serrated edge. In
The hermaphrodite flowers are produced in late spring and are insect-pollinated; they are rather inconspicuous, small, yellowish green and grow in cymes of 3-8 together. The capsular fruit ripens in autumn, and is red to purple or pink in colour and approximately 1 to 1.5 cm wide. When ripe, the four lobes split open to reveal the orange seeds.
The fruit is poisonous, containing amongst other substances, the alkaloids theobromine and caffeine, as well as an extremely bitter terpene. Poisonings are more common in young children, who are enticed by the brightly-coloured fruits. Ingestion can result in liver and kidney damage and even death.
Uses
A yellow dye is obtained from the fruit and seed. A pink dye from the fruit case and an orange dye from the seed.
A high quality charcoal is obtained from the wood.
DISCLAIMER
Any uses for trees or tree extracts, whether edible or medicinal, have not been tried or tested by EFORESTS.
Please take caution and seek proper advice before attempting any recipes or medicinal extracts from any of the trees listed on our site.
Culture and Symbolism
The spindle tree is said to represent honour of tribe, community and the sweetness and delight of a sudden revelation.
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