Silver Queen Euonymus

Broadleaf evergreen shrubs make for great bones in a garden. They can be used to define areas, screen off eye-sores or neighbors, and anchor foundation plantings next to the house. Silver Queen Euonymus will perform all these tasks while adding a splash of color with its highly variegated and silvery-edged foliage. This shrub looks great all year round with very little upkeep. Silver Queen Euonymus has a naturally mounded and dense shape that lends itself to small informal topiary and low hedging. 

Euonymus japonicus ‘Silver Queen’ is tolerant of just about any soil texture. After establishing a strong root system, it will handle dry conditions and salt spray in coastal areas. Deer and rabbits rarely nibble on the thick leaves, even in areas of heavy concentrations. Silver Queen is a slightly smaller variety that can be grown in a container successfully. 

Silver Queen Euonymus Care

Euonymus will thrive and keep its brilliantly variegated colors in a location with at least half a day of full sun. Soil texture or pH is not essential as long as it is well draining.  Fertilize Euonymus once a year in the early spring, using a granular, slow-release, and balanced fertilizer. Look for an NPK ratio of 10-10-10. Supplemental watering is required for the first two years or until the root system is well established. Using soaker hoses or drip irrigation helps to keep foliage from getting wet or muddy.

Euonymus can handle regular pruning to maintain topiary or more formal hedge shapes. Regular pruning in late winter is the perfect opportunity to remove any branches that are damaged, diseased, or dying. Pruning in the fall may not give Silver Queen a chance to harden off before winter fully. Euonymus is toxic to humans and pets and should not be grown in areas where pets are kept outdoors. 

Silver Queen Euonymus Spacing

Silver Queen Euonymus reaches a mature height and spread of about 4-5 feet. Place shrubs 4 feet apart on center when planting as a tight hedge or in multiples.