Spindle Tree

Spindle Tree
A large and widespread genus of 177 species of deciduous, semi-evergreen, and evergreen trees, shrubs, and climbers, found in N. America, Eurasia, and Australia. Many spindles are grown as ornamentals; some deciduous species have spectacular autumn cover, with pink to red foliage and fruits. Several species were valued by native N Americans, the most important being Euonymus atropurpureus, used for various ailments, from uterine discomfort to sore eyes. It was adopted by settlers in the 19th century as a diuretic and became popular as a heart medicine following reports of digitalis-like effects. Euonymus atropurpureus has also found its way into Ayurvedic medicine as a diuretic, purgative, and anti-pyretic.

Deciduous shrub or small tree with smooth, gray bark and ovate-lanceolate, pointed leaves, 3-13cm (1¼-5in) long, that turn red in autumn. Small green flowers appear in axillary clusters in spring and early summer, followed by four-lobed, pink capsules, containing orange seeds.

Common Name:	Spindle Tree
Botanical Name:	Euonymus europaeus
Genus:	Euonymus
Family:	Celastraceae
Cultivation:	Well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Thin out shoots in late winter to maintain shape. Euonymus europaeus is prone to scale insects and aphids.
Propagation:	By seed sown when ripe; by greenwood cuttings in summer. Seed needs stratifying and is viable for 2 years.
Harvest:	Bark is collected in autumn and dried for use in decoctions, tablets, and tinctures.
Native Location:	Central and Eastern N America
Height:	2-8m (6-25ft)
Width:	1.2-3m (4-10ft)
Variations:	Red Cascade Has richer autumn color and a heavier crop of rose-pink fruits. Height: 3m (10ft) Width: 2.5m (8ft)
Hardiness:	Z3-8
Parts Used:	Bark, root bark
Properties:	A bitter, astringent herb that acts as a diuretic and emetic, and stimulates bile flow.
Medicinal Uses:	Internally for liver and gall bladder complaints. Externally for chilblains, abscesses, acne, and wounds.
Warning:	All parts, especially fruits and seeds, are harmful if eaten.
Bibliography:	Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown. Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited. pg 208