Euonymus fortunei 'Harlequin,' also known as Harlequin Euonymus or Wintercreeper 'Harlequin,' is a striking and variegated evergreen shrub, cherished for its attractive foliage and versatility. As a member of the Celastraceae family, this cultivar of Euonymus fortunei is prized for its distinct leaf colors and patterns, making it a popular choice for adding year-round interest to gardens, landscapes, and containers.

Why We Like It:

• Variegated foliage: Euonymus fortunei 'Harlequin' features eye-catching leaves with a unique and beautiful variegation, showcasing a blend of green, white, and pink or rose hues, adding a splash of color to any planting area.
• Year-round interest: Its evergreen nature ensures that 'Harlequin' provides visual appeal throughout all seasons, making it a valuable addition to the garden's design.
• Versatility: This cultivar's compact size and low-maintenance needs make it suitable for various landscape applications, from ground cover to borders and containers.

What to Know:

• Light requirements: Euonymus fortunei 'Harlequin' prefers partial to full sun. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade may reduce the intensity of its variegation.
• Watering and soil: Keep the soil consistently moist during its establishment phase, and then it becomes relatively drought-tolerant. Provide well-draining soil to prevent waterlogged conditions.
• Pruning: Regular pruning can help maintain a more compact and neat growth habit, as well as enhance the development of new, colorful leaves.
• Temperature tolerance: 'Harlequin' can tolerate a range of temperatures, making it suitable for different climate zones.
• Invasive potential: Some Euonymus species, not necessarily 'Harlequin,' can be invasive in certain regions. Be sure to check with local authorities about its invasive potential before planting.

Leaf Color and Pattern: Euonymus fortunei 'Harlequin' showcases a striking variegation of green, white, and pink or rose colors, creating an enchanting and eye-catching mosaic on its leaves.

Height and Spread: When fully grown, Euonymus fortunei 'Harlequin' can reach a height of approximately 2-3 feet (60-90 centimeters) with a spread of about 3-4 feet (90-120 centimeters). Its compact size and spreading growth habit make it an excellent choice for edging, mass planting, or as a colorful ground cover in various garden settings.