Burning Bush (Euonymus and Friends): ID, Care, and Modern Concerns

This updated guide explains that "burning bush" applies to several plants - most commonly Euonymus alatus and Dictamnus albus. Euonymus alatus features corky winged twigs and brilliant red fall foliage, tolerates varied soils and pruning, but is invasive in many regions and should be avoided near wildlands. Dictamnus albus (gas plant) is a fragrant perennial whose volatile oils can ignite briefly and which can irritate skin. The article covers basic care, uses, and modern cautions, and recommends choosing noninvasive alternatives when possible.

What gardeners historically called "burning bush"

The common name "burning bush" has been applied to several unrelated plants. The two most frequently meant are Euonymus alatus (the winged or corky-winged euonymus) and Dictamnus albus (gas plant or false dittany). Both are decorative, but they differ in form, ecology and modern gardener guidance.

Euonymus alatus (winged euonymus)

Euonymus alatus is a deciduous shrub in the Celastraceae family. It is known for corky ridges along its twigs, compact habit, and brilliant red to scarlet fall foliage. Mature plants commonly reach roughly 6-12 feet tall, and many produce orange fruit capsules that split to reveal red seeds attractive to birds.

Euonymus alatus tolerates a wide range of soils and can withstand drought once established. It performs best in full sun for the most vivid fall color; shade tends to reduce both color intensity and plant density.

A major modern concern is that E. alatus is invasive in parts of North America. Several states restrict its sale or recommend against planting it in natural areas because it can escape cultivation and displace native plants. Many nurseries now offer alternatives for fall color.

Dictamnus albus (gas plant/false dittany)

Dictamnus albus belongs to the Rutaceae family and is a perennial with spikes of fragrant flowers. It earned the nickname "gas plant" because volatile oils produced by the foliage and flowers can, under the right conditions, ignite briefly. The species can irritate sensitive skin and should be handled with care. It prefers well-drained soil and a sunny position.

Uses, maintenance and cautions

• Landscape use: Euonymus has been widely used as a low-maintenance hedge, specimen, or background shrub. Dictamnus is used as a long-lived perennial specimen.

• Pruning: Euonymus tolerates shearing and responds well to pruning; prune in late winter or early spring. Dictamnus spreads slowly and is best left undisturbed.

• Wildlife and toxicity: Birds eat euonymus fruits and help disperse seeds. Parts of both genera contain compounds that can cause irritation or gastrointestinal upset in humans if ingested; handle with care and keep children and pets away from berries and foliage. [[CHECK: specific toxicity details and severity]]

Modern recommendations

If you value bright fall color but are concerned about invasiveness, choose native or noninvasive shrubs instead of Euonymus alatus. If you grow E. alatus, avoid planting it near natural areas and remove seed heads to limit spread. For Dictamnus, plant where skin contact is limited and enjoy the fragrant flower spikes.

1. Confirm the specific toxic compounds in Euonymus alatus and clinical symptoms/severity after ingestion.
2. Confirm the clinical risks and mechanism of skin irritation from Dictamnus albus (photodermatitis vs general irritation).
3. Verify which U.S. states or jurisdictions currently restrict sale or list Euonymus alatus as invasive.
4. Provide region-specific native alternatives to Euonymus alatus for fall color where appropriate.