Spindle 'Kewensis'

Euonymus fortunei 'Kewensis' is one of the smallest and most delicate-looking evergreen ground covers, yet it is incredibly tough and versatile. It produces a dense, low mat of very fine, trailing stems clothed in tiny, dark green, oval leaves with distinctive white veins. Its growth habit is prostrate, hugging the ground and following the contours of the soil or stones, but it will also climb slowly if it encounters a vertical surface like a tree trunk or wall. This makes it an excellent choice for a rock garden, for softening the edges of paths, or for providing a living mulch in shaded areas. It is extremely hardy (H5) and will grow in almost any soil type, including heavy clay, provided it is not waterlogged. In the UK, it is often used in formal gardens to create a neat, evergreen carpet that requires very little maintenance other than an occasional trim to keep it within bounds. It is also quite shade-tolerant, making it useful for underplanting.

Sun: Full sun to full shade.

Soil: Any well-drained soil.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.