Fire Ball Seedless Burning Bush

Light Needs

Partial Shade to Full Sun

(At Least 3 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

4 - 5 Feet

Mature Spread

4 - 5 Feet

Growing Zones

4 to 8

Fire Ball Seedless™ Burning Bush (Euonymus alatus 'NCEA1') brings a showstopping display of fiery red foliage in autumn. Its compact habit, often reaching about 4 to 5 feet tall, makes it an excellent choice for smaller yards or mixed borders. The seedless nature sets it apart from other burning bush varieties, reducing unwelcome spread. This selection delivers a pop of bright color with less maintenance hassle.

Despite its dramatic fall color, this shrub remains a tidy green accent from spring through summer. Deer generally skip it, and common pests rarely pose a problem. Its Asian heritage lends adaptability to a range of climates and garden uses, from hedges to foundation plantings. It develops drought tolerance with maturity and is suitable for lower-maintenance landscaping or container culture.

Fire Ball Seedless™ Burning Bush Care

Plant it in full sun or partial light, and provide well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Water regularly during the first season, then moderate watering should suffice once the shrub matures. Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to support new growth, and maintain a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Prune in late winter or early spring if you need to shape it or remove damaged branches.

Deadheading is not necessary, as it produces no fruit, but you can trim back any stray or broken stems. Major shearing is uncommon with burning bush; a light thinning can help maintain its natural form if desired. Rejuvenating an older plant by cutting back heavily may encourage vigorous new shoots, though this is rarely required. In harsh winters, mulch around the base, and consider placing container-grown specimens in a sheltered spot.

Fire Ball Seedless™ Burning Bush Spacing

For row plantings or informal hedges, allow about 3 to 5 feet between each shrub. A single specimen in a border needs enough open space to accommodate its mature width on all sides. A container at least 16 inches wide gives a young plant ample room for root growth. If you plan to keep it in a pot long-term, consider upsizing as it matures.